Date: 10/21/25 4:26 pm From: Dody Wyman <dody...> Subject: Re: [birders] Juncoes are here
Haven’t seen any juncos yet, but first red-breasted nuthatch today.
On Oct 18, 2025, at 9:54 AM, Fred Kaluza <fredkaluza...> wrote:
Ditto Michael! We had two in Port Huron yesterday morning as well. Thanks for the report! I just stocked-up on Oilers and Peanut Splits from Menards yesterday. Oilers we’re reasonable in the 50# bag but all forms of peanut products are “spendy” again this year.
From: Michael Parow <mlparow...>
Sent: Friday, October 17, 2025 3:22:29 PM
To: birders <birders...>
Subject: [birders] Juncoes are here
In Pittsfield Township. Can the snow be far behind?! —mike
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Date: 10/21/25 3:18 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (21 Oct 2025) 1121 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 21, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Andrew Sturgess, Mark Hainen
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
On either end of a day that looked pleasant enough, unless you were outside
in it, we had bookends of heavy bands of rain at 0400 and 1600. The latter
with severe thunder storm warnings. The cards were stacked against us
today, with low pressure, a stout wind that started at thirteen mph, and
spiked at thirty as the storm approached, and finally the direction of the
wind for most of the day was south-southwest. This tends to alter the
flight lines to who knows where, as we don’t see most of them. The day
looked like a sunny fall day with a flotilla of white cumulus clouds
scudding by, driven by an irresistible wind, resembling the start of the
Heineken Regatta in St. Maarten. They soon left a bright blue sky littered
with small white fragments of genoas and spinnakers that had succumbed to
the wind. Although the wind never subsided, we were sheltered to some
degree by the windbreak behind us. The sixty-two- degree temperature made
it a more comfortable day than we had expected. The barometer has fallen
into the 29.6” range and that will last through tomorrow.
Raptor Observations:
Turkey vultures saved the day of course. They seem to take pleasure in
rough gusty winds that at times nearly turn them over. We counted one
thousand, and seventy-five today. For such adverse conditions, this
exceeded our expectations. The sharpies came in second with thirty-five of
them getting buffeted by the wind. The gusty conditions bring them close to
us as they try to stay below the wind, but photographing them is a serious
challenge as they bounce up and down out of the frame. Northern harriers
took the bronze with four birds, one a gray ghost. They often fly just
above the water to avoid the turbulence; we did see some sharpies doing the
same thing today. Red-tails finished just off the podium with three birds,
red-shoulders had two. A single Cooper’s hawk was counted, and one feisty
merlin was looking a meal, chasing a blackbird.
Non-raptor Observations:
The pelicans were not quite as active today, but had their moments. We
think several hundred are staying nearby. A Bonaparte’s gull and a common
tern sought some shelter in the slip today, but it was only a brief visit.
Red-winged blackbirds were starting to move today with several small flocks
undulating by. The blue jays took the day off to celebrate their
namesake’s advancement to the World Series, apparently, they took the
crows with them. Four super monarchs made it past the site in tough winds.
(Please excuse my cut and paste faux pas in yesterday’s report if you
received a flawed copy.)
Predictions:
The saving grace tomorrow is that the rain may help us to avoid a cruel
fate. A starting temperature of forty-six, only predicted to rise to near
fifty degrees, with southwest winds starting at thirteen mph and rising to
nineteen mph, what’s not to like? Full clouds should be the order of the
day with the potential for showers to delay the start of the watch. The
pressure will remain low until Thursday. Not a recipe for success, but the
vultures must move, whether we will see them is the issue.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Andrew Sturgess (<ajyes72...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Erik van den Kieboom
Observers: Mike Jaber, Noel Herdman
Visitors: Thank you to Noel and Mike J. for helping with the count today. Thank you to Mary Joe, Mike S., and the three school groups for visiting us today.
Weather: Sunny with some cloud and temperatures increasing from 13 to 16C during the count period. Strong SW winds in the morning lightening up as the day progressed.
Raptor Observations: Low numbers of most species today, the most abundant being Turkey Vultures and Sharp-shinned Hawks. Some highlights included 4 Merlins and a couple Peregrine Falcons.
Non-raptor Observations: Including raptors, 62 species were observed today. Some highlights included a late Blackpoll Warbler and a third cycle Lesser Black-backed Gull. The number of American White Pelicans dropped drastically, with only 152 seen. Today's ebird list can be found here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280693037
Predictions: Tomorrow we expect steady rain and a strong SW wind. The rain will likely limit raptor movement and the wind will push birds to the north, making viewing difficult. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erik van den Kieboom (<ErikKieboom...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 10/21/25 6:15 am From: 'Steve Jerant' via Birders <birders...> Subject: [birders] Haehnle Sanctuary Crane Count 10/20/2025
Total Cranes Roosting: 191See Don Henise’s excellent JAS Blog at:
JacksonAudubon Society - Haehnle Sanctuary Crane Count 10/20/2025 By Don Henise
You can view past postings and historical crane countingdata on
Haehnle web site
JASBlog page
And on JAS or Haehnle FB pages
Regards,Steve Jerant
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Date: 10/21/25 4:04 am From: Fred Kaluza <fredkaluza...> Subject: Re: [birders] Juncoes are here
Ditto Michael! We had two in Port Huron yesterday morning as well. Thanks for the report! I just stocked-up on Oilers and Peanut Splits from Menards yesterday. Oilers we’re reasonable in the 50# bag but all forms of peanut products are “spendy” again this year.
________________________________
From: Michael Parow <mlparow...>
Sent: Friday, October 17, 2025 3:22:29 PM
To: birders <birders...>
Subject: [birders] Juncoes are here
In Pittsfield Township. Can the snow be far behind?! —mike
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Date: 10/20/25 2:57 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (20 Oct 2025) 2054 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 20, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Andrew Sturgess, Bill Peregord, Jerry Jourdan,
Johannes Postma, Mark Hainen, Rosemary Brady
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
Normally, when a tempest such as yesterdays had passed, we expect northerly
winds as a new high comes in. However, we are situated at the very top end
of a high, and therefore, getting westerly winds, at least to start the
day. Six mph eventually became a brisk sixteen, before our usual change of
direction in the afternoon. The wind backed around, settling in the south.
That required us to search harder for the birds than we had in the morning,
as the flight lines changed further to the north. The temperature reached
sixty-two degrees, which doesn’t sound too bad, except with a sixteen-mph
wind and the shade of a determined maple which did not give up many leaves
yesterday, as many trees did. It is finally starting to feel like fall.
Cloud cover was sparse today, with occasional cirrus and small cumulus
clouds making cameo appearances, but not staying in the frame very long.
The barometer climbed, but that is only temporary, as there is a low to the
west of us and more rain and low pressure are soon to arrive.
Raptor Observations:
Turkey vultures carried the day, as expected. We tallied nineteen hundred
and forty-four. They came fairly close until the wind pushed them to the
north in the afternoon. The sharp-shins had a good day with eighty-one
specimens being seen. We had thought that they were nearly done with the
big runs, but this is a respectable number for our site. Red-tailed hawks
were not as plentiful as we hoped for, with only twelve of them passing
through. Their sometimes doppelganger, the red-shouldered hawk, nearly
matched them with nine birds. We had three harriers today, two, traveling
together, were gray ghosts. These birds are blown around by gusty winds so
they were probably staying low behind the trees today. Two peregrines were
seen, handling the winds very well, as they usually do. The golden eagles
outnumbered the bald eagles today by a two to one count. The local bald
eagles were up in force today as this is the kind of brisk winds that they
enjoy. There were also providing escort service to the city limits for one
of the goldens, reminding it of whose territory it was traveling through.
Non-raptor Observations:
Turkey vultures carried the day, as expected. We tallied nineteen hundred
and forty-four. They came fairly close until the wind pushed them to the
north in the afternoon. The sharp-shins had a good day with eighty-one
specimens being seen. We had thought that they were nearly done with the
big runs, but this is a respectable number for our site. Red-tailed hawks
were not as plentiful as we hoped for, with only twelve of them passing
through. Their sometimes doppelganger, the red-shouldered hawk, nearly
matched them with nine birds. We had three harriers today, two, traveling
together, were gray ghosts. These birds are blown around by gusty winds so
they were probably staying low behind the trees today. Two peregrines were
seen, handling the winds very well, as they usually do. The golden eagles
outnumbered the bald eagles today by a two to one count. The local bald
eagles were up in force today as this is the kind of brisk winds that they
enjoy. There were also providing escort service to the city limits for one
of the goldens, reminding it of whose territory it was traveling through.
Predictions:
Another drop in pressure tomorrow, and potential showers, along with
southern winds. does not make for a promising day. The next two days look a
little wet, with high winds from a direction containing the word south. It
should be much cloudier, with temperatures reaching the very high fifties
tomorrow, and maybe just falling short of the mark on Wednesday. Neither
look to be promising days, but hope springs eternal, and the birds don’t
read weather reports.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Andrew Sturgess (<ajyes72...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Erik van den Kieboom
Observers: Baylana Hiebert, Hugh Kent, Juliette Herdman, Mike Jaber, Noel Herdman, Susan Weaver
Visitors: We would like to thank Noel, Juliette, Mike, Susan, Baylana, and Robin for helping with the count today. We would also like to thank Lou, Toni, and Nate for visiting us today.
Weather: Sunny with some cloud and temperatures increasing from 10 to 15C during the count period. The morning began with strong west winds that eventually lightened and shifted to the southwest.
Raptor Observations: Good numbers of Turkey Vultures, Northern Harriers, and Sharp-shinned Hawks were on the move today.Some other highlights included two Golden Eagles, a light morph Rough-legged Hawk, and a Peregrine Falcon.
Non-raptor Observations: Including raptors, 71 species were observed today. Some highlights included over 900 American White Pelicans and a couple late Barn Swallows and Spotted Sandpipers. Today's ebird list can be found here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280540810
Predictions: Tomorrow we are expecting a chance of rain and thunderstorms with some breaks and a strong WSW wind. This will likely move most raptor movement away to the northeast of the tower, although a lot of rain could reduce movement altogether. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erik van den Kieboom (<ErikKieboom...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Paul Gosselin
Observers: Daniel Lee
Visitors: Big thanks to Paul and Dan for braving the weather and doing the count.
Weather: Moderate winds from the south to start the morning followed by a couple hours of heavy rain. Rain eventually stopped late morning but winds picked up and fog/haze settled in. Temperature hovered around 17C for the morning.
Raptor Observations: Very few raptors counted today due to inclement weather. Strong south winds to start the morning with only a few raptors. Second hour was pretty much the same but no raptors seen. The next couple hours, there were no observations due to heavy rain. Final hour was foggy and hazy with just one raptor counted.
Non-raptor Observations: Large numbers of ducks again in the marsh with Ring-necked Ducks totalling 1842. 350 American White Pelicans observed in the marsh. Large numbers of Tree Swallows migrating past tower....other birds were in low numbers. The complete ebird list can be found here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280340448
Predictions: Mostly sunny. High of 16C. Winds WSW 15-25 km/hr. Hopefully the Raptors will fly again in reasonable numbers after the recent bout of rain. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Dana Ogglesby (<danaogglesby...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 10/18/25 2:41 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (18 Oct 2025) 514 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 18, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Andrew Sturgess, Bill Peregord, Don Sherwood, Mark Hainen,
Michelle Peregord
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
We were slow to react to the Christmas tree lights today, but unlike our
results from a few days past, we got stuck in first gear and never got up
to speed. The problem was the southern winds, they brought the heat with
them, the thermometer reached eighty-two, but they also moved the flight
line north to an area which we could not observe. The wind rose and fell,
veered and backed, evidenced by our taking off layers, and then replacing
them as the wind direction changed to come off the lake. Fifteen mph was
the top speed, too strong for our site. The barometer is falling as we
approach a bottom tomorrow. At the watch’s end, it was 29.67 inches,
destined to fall another three tenths tomorrow. Clouds were constantly
changing, with various layers scudding along. We ended with high cirrus
clouds, possibly a lot of them from plane contrails. During the day we had
our share of low cumulus that varied from sun-blocking near-stratus to
isolated puffballs.
Raptor Observations:
We had four hundred and ninety turkey vultures today, a mere pittance of
what we saw a few days ago. Most of these birds may have sat down overnight
from yesterday’s flight and were early risers. They took the great circle
route, which we think crosses at Grosse Ile, turning to the west far to the
north, flying in a very difficult hazy sky that we had trouble piecing.
Sharpies were buffeted by the wind and only fifteen showed up today. Four
red-tailed hawks flew by. Three Cooper’s hawks were noted. A pair of
northern harriers came by together.
Non-raptor Observations:
We did have a couple of Bonaparte’s gulls this morning, our first
confirmed sighting. We know that they are present in great numbers
relatively nearby, but they have not ventured into our neighborhood. The
pelicans continue to stretch their wings, over Canada for the most part.
Today must have been the opening of duck season as the hunters were out in
force, some near their usual roosting spot by the jetty. Butter-butts and
kinglets of both persuasions continue to be seen on the trails. Hermit
thrushes have been spotted by some. The blue jay count was forty today, the
crow count was twenty. Six monarchs were seen in the warm air today.
Predictions:
Fuggedaboutit. If the forecasts are correct, and they are usually perfect,
(right?) then we will have no chance tomorrow. Not only will rain and
thunderstorms affect the area, but the winds should be double the speed
that killed us today. Projected to start at twenty-one mph, and only drop
by one or two mph during the watch, it may be time to take a well-earned
day of rest. Temperatures will be falling from sixty-five to fifty-seven
during the watch hours, as real fall temperatures are on the way for the
foreseeable future. The barometer should bottom at 29.36” before a
rebound occurs, with northwest winds ushering in a new high. Most of this
will take place overnight, but Monday will be a day to watch, Sunday may be
a day to watch football. We’ll see what conditions are like in the
morning.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Andrew Sturgess (<ajyes72...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Paul Gosselin
Observers: Hugh Kent, Liz Kent, Mike Jaber, Noel Herdman, Peter Veighey
Visitors: We would like to thank Mel, Beth, Chun Chih, Wing and Lilian, Steve and his partner Sheila for visiting us today.
Weather: Light wind from south, cloudy skies, temperature ranged from 17C to 24C over the watch, pressure fell slightly during the day.
Raptor Observations: Turkey Vultures took the top spot (420), the other raptors were only in single figures.
Non-raptor Observations: There were large numbers of ducks in the marsh, the Ring-necked Ducks were over 2000. American White Pelicans numbered 600. For the time of the year there were a good variety of warblers around the tower. Highlight of the day was a Sora in the pond east of the tower at the end of the day. Today's ebird list can be found here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280165405
Predictions: Rain is forecast for tomorrow so it's likely there will not be a large number of raptors passing the tower. However, the south wind will be stronger than today, so if the rain stops at around midday, some Turkey Vultures and other raptors may like to play on the wind. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Dana Ogglesby (<danaogglesby...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 10/17/25 7:59 pm From: <ibblazin...> Subject: RE: [birders] Juncoes are here
Had our FOY Junco this morning in Canton. I'm always happy to see them arrive....not as happy about what that means!
-----Original Message-----
From: Michael Parow <mlparow...>
Sent: Friday, October 17, 2025 3:22 PM
To: birders <birders...>
Subject: [birders] Juncoes are here
In Pittsfield Township. Can the snow be far behind?! —mike
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Date: 10/17/25 4:47 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (17 Oct 2025) 1976 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 17, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Andrew Sturgess, Don Sherwood, Mark Hainen
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating
raptors.
Weather:
The sky stayed partly cloudy throughout the day, but the view was anything
but static. Cirrus and stratus clouds shared the stage, swirling and
drifting at their own altitudes. From below, we watched them mingle, part,
and leave behind wide patches of blue. They might have made perfect
reference points for calling out birds—if there had been any to call out.
The wind blew steadily from the south, never dropping below 10 mph. With
the temperature climbing close to 65°F and the treeline shielding us from
the gusts, it almost felt warm. The barometer dipped below 30", beginning
its steep fall ahead of the rain expected this weekend.
Raptor Observations:
Several large groups of Turkey Vultures that had roosted near the Canadian
border lifted off together, wasting no time kettling before heading our
way. Turkey Vultures are masters of effortless flight—soaring and gliding
for hours with barely a wingbeat. Their steeply held wings form a deep
dihedral that keeps them stable in turbulent air, giving them their
signature teetering motion. Like a sailboat tacking into the wind, that
wing posture also helps them maneuver efficiently against a headwind.
Today’s strong southern winds carried the vultures northward over the
river before they turned sharply over Grosse Ile, circling back low on our
west side—so low they nearly skimmed the treetops. A total of one
thousand nine hundred and thirty Turkey Vultures were counted. Other
species struggled more with the wind. A Northern Harrier was seen lifting
off from Gibraltar three separate times, each attempt ending with the bird
being buffeted back to the ground. On the fourth try, it finally gathered
enough resolve to cross the water. The species fared decently overall, with
fourteen counted—tying with Sharp-shinned Hawks, which also kept low in
the blustery air. Red-tailed Hawks edged them out with fifteen. Single
individuals of Cooper’s Hawk, Merlin, and Golden Eagle rounded out the
day’s list.
Non-raptor Observations:
A northbound Merlin was the first raptor spotted this morning—likely the
same one later counted. It had probably spent the night in the park and
lingered to hunt before resuming its journey. Along the maples, we
continued to see Hermit Thrush, Yellow-rumped Warbler, White-throated
Sparrow, White-crowned Sparrow, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, and Golden-crowned
Kinglet. No crows or monarchs were recorded, but thirty migrating Blue Jays
passed through. A pair of local Bald Eagles hunted ducks along the river,
squabbling over a catch and sending clumps of the waterfowl’s feathers
drifting behind them.
Predictions:
Tomorrow’s forecast calls for temperatures in the 70s, strong southerly
winds, a rapidly falling barometer, and evening rain—conditions unlikely
to favor migration.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Jo Patterson (<jopatterson06...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Erik van den Kieboom
Observers: Hugh Kent, Mike Jaber, Noel Herdman, Paul Gosselin, Peter Veighey
Visitors: We would like to thank Paul, Noel, Mike, and Peter for helping with the count today. We would also like to thank Lou, Toni, and Michelle for visiting us today.
Weather: Cloudy with partial sun all day, with temperatures increasing from 14 to 22C during the count period. Winds were light and from the southeast all day.
Raptor Observations: Low numbers of raptors moving today, although decent numbers of Turkey Vultures, Northern Harriers, and Red-tailed Hawks. Some highlights included a Black Vulture and our first Rough-legged Hawk of the season.
Non-raptor Observations: Including raptors, 69 species were observed today. Some highlights included a Sora, a Northern Rough-winged Swallow, and over 1000 American White Pelicans. Today's ebird list can be found here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279938989
Predictions: Tomorrow should be cloudy with some sun and moderate SSW winds. This will likely push most raptors away from the tower toward the north. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erik van den Kieboom (<ErikKieboom...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 10/17/25 12:22 pm From: Michael Parow <mlparow...> Subject: [birders] Juncoes are here
In Pittsfield Township. Can the snow be far behind?! —mike
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Date: 10/16/25 4:13 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (16 Oct 2025) 8585 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 16, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 16:00:00
Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Andrew Sturgess, Don Sherwood, Frank Kitakis, Jerry Jourdan,
Johannes Postma, Mark Hainen
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
Given that the price of gold is at record highs, we were thinking of
cashing in some of our golden eagles today. It was another bright blue day
with little cloud to block the sun. The winds, at first a hushed whisper,
and never over five mph, did their usual rise and falls, each fall followed
by a change in direction. The directions are too numerous to list. The
changing flight lines were evidence of the inconsistency. The temperature
reached sixty-three. The barometer remained high, but started to decline in
the afternoon, as it will for the next three days as inclement weather
moves in.
Raptor Observations:
The turkey vultures like to see us work OT. Their usual slow start is
followed by a river of birds that keep coming in ever greater numbers
towards the end of the day. Eight thousand, three hundred and eighteen was
the number today. At first, they flew over our heads, but later, as the
wind shifted to the east, they moved to the hazy northern skies and we had
to work a little harder. Red-tails were on the move today, with our
season-best count of one hundred and fourteen. This is the part of the
season where extra attention is given to the buteos, as red-tails and
red-shoulders are both present at times, and attention to detail is
required. Sharp-shins took the bronze with ninety birds, a nice rebound
from the low numbers we have seen lately. The aforementioned red-shoulders
had a respectable showing with twenty-three crescent-bearing winged
creatures passing through. Northern harriers had a decent day with fifteen
being noted. Eight bald eagles were tallied today. Seven golden eagles flew
high overhead, as is their wont. We didn’t get the falcon hat-trick for
want of a peregrine, but five kestrels and one merlin were observed. Three
Cooper’s hawks made the clicker and bringing up the rear, was a lone
broadwing. This one seemed to have a damaged wing, something we sometimes
see on the late broadwings.
Non-raptor Observations:
The big excitement today was seeing a pair of territorial bald eagles
tangle with a pair of transient golden eagles. We have seen these
interactions before, where the local eagles are anxious to escort the
transients out of town. Lots of diving on each other, although no blood, or
feathers, were shed. The pelicans are still practicing their drafting
skills, flying in long lines, all of them tucked into each other’s wake.
There are still yellow-rumped warbles plying their trade. There was also a
thrush, of yet to be determined lineage, in the tree with the warblers and
robins. The blue jays had a little bounce-back today with two hundred and
twenty. No doubt inspired by Toronto’s shellacking of the Seattle
Mariners. The crows are picking up the pace a little with one hundred and
forty today. The monarchs may nearly have reached the end of their rope
with two today, but the winds were not kind in the afternoon, so we would
not have seen them anyway.
Predictions:
Change is on the way again. Wet weather looks imminent on the weekend,
cloudy skies as a prelude tomorrow. The most troubling thing for the watch
looks to be the southerly winds that will be fairly robust, climbing
tomorrow from about five mph and reaching double digits. The double-digit
winds will continue for several days, although the direction may change.
Temperatures will be dropping into the fifties soon, and perhaps we will
feel the first sting of the impending winter. It has been summer for too
long, and we need to pay our dues. Friday will probably be the best day of
the coming weekend, hopefully, after the storm has passed, we will see an
uptick, although I don’t see our favored wind for some time.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Andrew Sturgess (<ajyes72...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Erik van den Kieboom, Paul Gosselin
Observers: Hugh Kent, Liz Kent, Mike Jaber, Noel Herdman, Paul Gosselin
Visitors: We would like to thank Paul, Mike, Karen, and Noel for helping with the count today. We would also like to thank Mel, Sharon, Ian, Laurie, Barry, Kate, Paul, Julia, Cecile, Don, Wendy, and Isla for visiting us today.
Weather: Sunny all day with some cloud and temperatures increasing from 9 to 17C during the count period. Winds began in the northeast and shifted to the southwest by the end of the count period, and were light throughout the day.
Raptor Observations: Good numbers of Turkey Vultures, Sharp-shinned, Red-shouldered, and Red-tailed Hawks were moving today. Some raptor highlights included 3 Golden Eagles and a Peregrine Falcon.
Non-raptor Observations: Including raptors, 75 species were observed today. Some highlights included a Sora, a Common Gallinule, and a couple Canvasback. Today's ebird list can be found here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279760757
Predictions: Tomorrow we are expecting partial sun and cloud with a moderate south wind. This will likely push most raptors away from the tower towards the north. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erik van den Kieboom (<ErikKieboom...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
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Date: 10/16/25 7:40 am From: 'Rich Wolinski' via Birders <birders...> Subject: Re: [birders] Name that sparrow⁉️⁉️
Yes. On Oct 16, 2025 10:26 AM, Mag Tait <magtait1...> wrote:
Thank you, that was not when I wouldâve figured out on my own easily! Sent from my iPhone
On Oct 16, 2025, at 7:57â¯AM, ANDREW DETTLING <dendroica...> wrote:
Correct Andy DettlingÂ
Sent from AT&T Yahoo Mail for iPhone
On Wednesday, October 15, 2025, 8:31 PM, 'Anna Walker' via Birders <birders...> wrote:
Is this a White-throated Sparrow juvenileâï¸ Anna Hartland
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Sent from my iPhone
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Date: 10/16/25 4:57 am From: ANDREW DETTLING <dendroica...> Subject: Re: [birders] Name that sparrow⁉️⁉️
Correct
Andy Dettling
Sent from AT&T Yahoo Mail for iPhone
On Wednesday, October 15, 2025, 8:31 PM, 'Anna Walker' via Birders <birders...> wrote:
Is this a White-throated Sparrow juvenile⁉️
Anna
Hartland
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Sent from my iPhone
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Date: 10/15/25 5:31 pm From: 'Anna Walker' via Birders <birders...> Subject: [birders] Name that sparrow⁉️⁉️
Is this a White-throated Sparrow juvenile⁉️
Anna
Hartland
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Sent from my iPhone
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Date: 10/15/25 3:59 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (15 Oct 2025) 5831 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 15, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 17:00:00
Total observation time: 9 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Andrew Sturgess, Don Sherwood, Mark Hainen, Rosemary Brady
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
We sat patiently through the light rain that started the watch, and
patiently through the first two hours of the watch, as we saw very few
birds. At the very end of the watch, we were rewarded with many squadrons
of turkey vultures, most near our location, where we could closely observe
them as strains of Wagner’s The Ride of the Valkyries ran through the
auditory cortex. The winds were mostly light northwest winds, veering
around to the north during our final, most productive hours. The cloud
cover after the rain was a forty-nine-shades-of-gray, rumpled duvet cover
of a sky, but as the day progressed, we saw more bright white cumulus
clouds appear, only to move on to the south, until the sky was a higher
percentage of blue than white. Temperatures reached the sixty-three-degree
mark, but as the wind turned more to the north, it felt like it was
dropping. The barometer stayed high, not moving in any significant way.
Raptor Observations:
The turkey vultures were the boss of all the other birds with a grand total
of five thousand, seven hundred, and twenty-eight. As soon as one kettle
cleared, another would appear in the haze as if coming through the NCAA
portal. The northwest wind does not do us any favors with most other
species, but we were able to rack up forty-nine red-tails today. The
sharpies are still in the game with thirty-four souls. Red-shouldered hawks
are becoming more a frequent visitor with ten making it past today. Two was
a common number today with bald eagles, American kestrels, northern
harriers and last, but certainly not least, two golden eagles. Cooper’s
hawks and merlins said that one is the loneliest number.
Non-raptor Observations:
There are still some summer birds to be seen in the park. An eastern phoebe
was seen hawking insects, and a blue-headed vireo was in the vicinity,
along with other warblers. The pelicans continue to put on impressive
displays of their flight capabilities with numbers in the hundreds. A pair
of sandhill cranes were soaring high overhead. Caspian and Forster’s
terns were seen today. The blue jay’s race is nearly run, with only
eighty counted today. American crows showed a three hundred percent
increase with twelve birds. Monarchs could only muster two today.
Predictions:
We have one more day of northerly winds before we have to pay the price
with three days of southern winds, and a potential rainout on Sunday. The
winds will be below five mph, so the birds will again go aloft in search of
stronger winds. Temperatures will reach the same mark as today, perhaps a
degree higher. The barometer will remain high, but it will dip on the
weekend when the rains come. Skies should be clear. I would expect a slow
start to the day, to which we have become accustomed, but hopefully, our
favorite carrion eaters will continue to fly.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Andrew Sturgess (<ajyes72...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Erik van den Kieboom
Observers: Chuck Sharbaugh, Hugh Kent, Liz Kent, Paul Gosselin
Visitors: We would like to thank Paul and Chuck for helping with the count today. We would also like to thank Dennis, Kate, Donna, Steve, Zach, Makayla and the two school groups for visiting us today.
Weather: Overcast with temperatures increasing from 13 to 16C during the count period. Winds were relatively strong and consistently NW throughout the day.
Raptor Observations: Good numbers of Turkey Vultures, Sharp-shinned Hawks, and Red-tailed Hawks moving today, lower numbers of other species.
Non-raptor Observations: Including raptors, 79 species were observed today. Some highlights included a Sora and a Red-headed Woodpecker. Today's ebird list can be found here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279581748
Predictions: Tomorrow we are expecting sunny skies and light NNE winds. This may push some raptors closer to the tower and allow for better views. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erik van den Kieboom (<ErikKieboom...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 10/15/25 9:12 am From: 'Steve Jerant' via Birders <birders...> Subject: [birders] Haehnle Sanctuary Crane Count 10/13/2025
Total Cranes Roosting: 104
See Don Henise’s excellent JAS Blog at:
JacksonAudubon Society - Haehnle Sanctuary Crane Count 10/13/2025 By Don Henise
You can view past postings and historical crane countingdata on
Haehnle web site
JASBlog page
And on JAS or Haehnle FB pages
Regards,Steve Jerant
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Date: 10/14/25 5:47 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (14 Oct 2025) 3049 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 14, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 16:00:00
Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Andrew Sturgess, Bill Peregord, Don Sherwood,
Johannes Postma, Mark Hainen, Rosemary Brady
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
The day began under a hazy blue sky. The sun’s intense glare off the lake
made looking east nearly impossible for the first three hours of the watch.
Haze obscured any view into Canada, forcing us to scour the horizon and
strain our eyes for vultures emerging from the “haze portal.” Wind out
of the north had us expecting a decent flight, though patience was required
as it didn’t reach ideal speeds until around 11:30. A brief swing to the
northwest slowed migration for about two hours, but once the wind shifted
back to the northeast, we ended the day with plenty of kettles. The
barometer fluctuated slightly, but remained around 30.2”. Air
temperatures were pleasant throughout the day, topping out at 70°F.
Raptor Observations:
We started the morning with two donuts again, but we know the drill by now
— patience pays off. Before long, the clickers were in motion. A massive
kettle of Turkey Vultures, nearly one thousand strong, emerged dramatically
from the haze. Several hundred more followed the same route over the next
four hours, totaling an impressive two thousand, nine hundred and
sixty-five vultures for the day. What made the flight truly special was
that nearly all these birds passed within naked-eye range — a spectacle
we’re not often treated to. Mingling within the vulture ranks came
forty-five Red-tailed Hawks, fifteen Sharp-shinned Hawks, twelve
Red-shouldered Hawks, three Bald Eagles, three Cooper’s Hawks, three
American Kestrels, two Northern Harriers, and one Merlin. The low flight
line and bright sunlight showcased plumage details rarely visible,
especially among the Buteos. Red-shouldered Hawks flashed their translucent
crescents, adults displaying rich rufous chests, while Red-tails revealed
astonishing plumage variety — young birds glowing bright through their
wing panels.
Non-raptor Observations:
Ruby-crowned and Golden-crowned Kinglets, White-throated Sparrows,
Yellow-rumped Warblers, and plenty of American Robins serenaded us from the
maples. Tree Swallows hawked insects and squabbled with one another across
the sky. Pelicans flew by the hundreds once again. Blue Jays tallied four
hundred and twenty, while American Crows contributed a modest five early
movers. Two Monarch Butterflies were spotted on their southbound journey
— we hope they make it. We appreciated a flock of Rusty Blackbirds
chattering from the branches of an elm, providing a moment of calm —
until a Cooper’s Hawk dove into the scene. The blackbirds scattered
instantly, leaving the unsuccessful hawk perched alone and dejected in
their place.
Predictions:
Tomorrow should bring cloudy skies, cooler air temperatures, and continued
northerly winds. Migration numbers will likely mirror those of the past few
days.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Jo Patterson (<jopatterson06...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Erik van den Kieboom
Observers: Baylana Hiebert, Mike Jaber, Noel Herdman, Paul Gosselin
Visitors: We would like to thank Paul, Mike, Baylana, and Noel for helping with the count today. We would also like to thank Lou and Toni for visiting us today.
Weather: Sunny all day with some cloud and temperatures increasing from 15 to 23C during the count period. Winds were fairly light and consistently NNE throughout the day.
Raptor Observations: Good numbers of Turkey Vultures and Sharp-shinned Hawks were moving today, along with fairly high numbers of Red-tailed and Red-shouldered Hawks. Some highlights today included two Golden Eagles, a dark morph Red-tailed Hawk, and a couple Peregrine Falcons.
Non-raptor Observations: Including Raptors, we observed 73 species today. Some highlights included more than 900 American White Pelicans, a Common Raven, and a Pine Warbler. Today's ebird list can be found here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279397568
Predictions: Tomorrow we are expecting partially cloudy skies and a moderate north wind. This should push more raptors toward the lakeshore, and offer better views from the tower. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erik van den Kieboom (<ErikKieboom...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 10/13/25 3:24 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (13 Oct 2025) 2464 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 13, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:30:00
Total observation time: 7.5 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Andrew Sturgess, Don Sherwood, Jerry Jourdan, Mark Hainen,
Sam Heilman
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
And, they’re off! We broke late from the gate today with a pair of bagels
in the first two hours. It didn’t look good as we had a specific goal in
mind. The peaceful skies did look good. Delicate wind-swept cirrus clouds
resembled brush strokes left by Jack Frost on a winter window pane. They
had cloud company, with cotton-ball cumulus clouds of varying intensity on
a lower floor. Since we had no birds to count it was easy to contemplate
nature’s artistry on display on the bright blue background above our
heads. The winds were from a favorable direction, north-northeast, but were
mere zephyrs, with little motivating force. Around noon, the winds died
completely in order to complete a crew change, and they returned from the
east-northeast direction, although that was not consistently true as they
wavered from time to time. Temperatures reached seventy-two degrees, and
with weak cooling winds, it was a comfortable day for all. The barometer
rose a little, but it was nothing of real consequence.
Raptor Observations:
The goal we had in mind today was to break the 100K mark for the season,
and by golly, we did it. As I mentioned, it did not seem promising in the
first two hours, but eventually the turkey vultures did begin to move, and
they brought along a few friends. We ended the day with twenty-four hundred
turkey vultures. Their kettles seem to be a little smaller now, but we are
well into this high-pressure zone and diminishing returns are the norm.
Red-tailed hawks were not a close second, but they did add twenty-three
birds to the mix. Sixteen sharp-shins did their part on this momentous day.
Red-shouldered hawks, all juveniles so far, are becoming more common, eight
showed up today. Cooper’s hawks also are increasing in numbers, with
seven tallied. One late broad-winged hawk was noted today. Two northern
harriers passed through. Four bald eagles were noted, although our locals
were up cruising most of the day. The falcon count was low, with one
kestrel and two merlins. One of the merlins secured a meal in our
binoculars as a flock of blue jays foolishly passed close by. We later saw
another one dive on an eagle, so they have no fear and will fight above
their weight class.
Non-raptor Observations:
The first odd sight of the day was a tree swallow in hot pursuit of a
killdeer. This was a twisting and turning affair that went across the slip,
around the mulberry bush, and back, lasting for much longer than we
expected. We have seen swallows take a run at sharp-shins occasionally,
when they are soaring in the same space, but nothing like this. The
pelicans continue to spend a lot of time in the air in various formations,
some of them numbering in the hundreds. Not sure what has changed with
them, but we see them much more frequently and in greater numbers. Rusty
blackbirds announced their presence, in the nearby maple tree, with their
distinctive calls. Also, calling were golden-crowned kinglets, photographed
by Mark. The blue jays are wrapping it up, with four hundred and fifty-one
being counted, but we had to subtract one since it was eaten. Another four
inpatient crows were counted, tired of waiting in the wings for the blue
jays to finish. Monarchs are still out there with seven counted today.
Predictions:
I would expect a slow start tomorrow as the winds look very light again.
Around noon, they may pick up above five mph from the north. This should
help the count. Temperatures are expected to remain the same, at
seventy-two degrees. The barometer will do the same. Partly cloudy skies
are predicted. We have two more days of gentle northerly winds before the
winds go southwest for several days. Rain is in the weekend forecast but
that may help to allow the birds to build up their numbers for a big day
when high pressure returns.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Andrew Sturgess (<ajyes72...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Erik van den Kieboom
Observers: Hugh Kent, Liz Kent, Mike Jaber, Noel Herdman
Visitors: We would like to thank Mike, Noel, and Dan for helping with the count today. We would also like to thank Lou, Toni, Corinne, Alex, Bonny, and Robin for visiting us today.
Weather: Sunny with some cloud and temperatures increasing from 14 to 22C during the count period. Winds today were light, starting in the north then shifting to the south.
Raptor Observations: Lower numbers of most species than previous days. Still good numbers of Turkey Vultures and Sharp-shinned Hawks moving. Some highlights included an American Goshawk and a Peregrine Falcon.
Non-raptor Observations: Including raptors, 73 species were recorded today. Some highlights included 800 American White Pelicans and a few Wilson's Snipe. Today's ebird list can be found here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279213241
Predictions: Tomorrow is expected to be sunny with some cloud and a moderate north wind. This will likely push more raptors toward the tower, allowing for good viewing conditions. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erik van den Kieboom (<ErikKieboom...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 10/12/25 2:53 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (12 Oct 2025) 3934 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 12, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Andrew Sturgess
Observers: Bill Peregord, Don Sherwood, Johannes Postma, Mark Hainen,
Michelle Peregord, Rosemary Brady
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
There may be better ways to spend time lazing on a sunny afternoon than
counting migrating raptors, but none of them come easily to mind. The day
had its twists and turns with the fickle winds of course. What started as a
benign northeast wind had a metamorphosis into a snarling beast of an
easterly wind that immediately seemed to scour the sky of any raptors.
Fortunately, it was on its way to a more productive southeast direction,
and when that was achieved, the flights resumed. Cloud cover was variable,
with cumulus clouds of inconsistent size, most seemed to be evaporating
over the lake. They were helpful as backdrops, when present, as the birds
were taking the high way again. Whitecaps were present on the lake, giving
evidence of the persistent nature of the wind. The temperature reached as
high as possible in the sixties, being short of seventy by one degree. The
barometer was below 30.1” but stayed above 30 inches of mercury.
Raptor Observations:
We thought that we had the beginnings of a very good day during the first
hours, with hundreds of birds counted each hour, until the wind took a
literal turn for the worse. We then dropped to thirty birds for that hour.
Luckily, the wind continued to veer and ended up in a more favorable
direction. Turkey vultures carried the water today, with three thousand,
eight hundred and fifty-five. What seemed to be a very good red-tailed day
was interrupted by the wind shift but we still managed forty-six specimens.
Twenty-two shins took the lower step of the podium finishers. Four
red-shouldered hawks were noted. Two kestrels scurried by in the winds, the
same number that the golden eagles earned. One was the number shared by
bald eagles, Cooper’s hawks, and the northern harriers.
Non-raptor Observations:
The pelicans are definitely energized the last couple of days. Many flights
of different sizes were noted, at times interfering with the counting of
TVs, as they did yesterday. The cormorants were seen en masse, flying over
the lake in a different formation than their usual follow-the-leader single
file lines. Gulls were up in numbers, their sudden improbable maneuvers
telling us they were hawking insects. Blue jay season seems to be coming to
a close with five hundred and ninety birds. As further evidence of that, we
had their successors, the crows, show up with four of them flying together
today. We don’t see crows at the watch site except for migration and at
times they can put on an impressive display. Let’s hope they have a good
year.
Predictions:
Monday looks to have winds from the east-northeast again, but they are
predicted to be less than five mph. That usually means a lot of
unpredictable ups and downs, with direction shifts thrown in for good
measure. The temperature should be higher than seventy degrees tomorrow by
a degree or two. The barometer will actually rise tomorrow but not by a
really significant amount, still high pressure. Partly cloudy skies means
some cloud, but at times, a clear blue sky to sear the eyeballs. I would
expect more of the same that we had today. We will depend on the mercy of
the winds, either feast or famine., with turkey vultures continuing their
exodus from Canada.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Andrew Sturgess (<ajyes72...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Observation start time: 06:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 8.5 hours
Official Counter: Erik van den Kieboom
Observers: Hugh Kent, Liz Kent, Mike Jaber, Paul Gosselin
Visitors: Thank you to Paul and Mike for helping with the count today. Thank you to Bob, Lou, Toni, and Emily for visiting us today.
Weather: Sunny with some cloud and temperatures increasing from 11 to 24C during the count period. Strong winds moving between the northeast and the southeast throughout the day.
Raptor Observations: Large numbers of Turkey Vultures and Sharp-shinned Hawks were moving today, along with good numbers of Red-tailed and Red-shouldered Hawks. Highlights included a lone Golden Eagle and a Peregrine Falcon.
Non-raptor Observations: Including raptors, 72 species were observed today. Highlights included nearly 860 American White Pelicans and a Little Gull. Today's ebird list can be found here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279013616
Predictions: Tomorrow we are expecting sunny skies and a moderate ESE wind. This may encourage more raptors to move, however they may not be very close to the tower. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erik van den Kieboom (<ErikKieboom...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 10/12/25 1:04 pm From: '<plynkny...>' via Birders <birders...> Subject: [birders] black bird migration
Friday afternoon our lawn was host to 40-50 black birds, mostly Grackles. They were accompanied by Starlings and a few Brown-Headed Cowbirds.
Saturday, there were nearly twice as many birds, but nearly all were Grackles.
Black bird, Bye-bye!
Lynn
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Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Hugh Kent, Mike Jaber, Paul Gosselin
Observers: Corinne Allsop, Hugh Kent, Jacob Stasso, Jeremy Bensette, Liz Kent, Mike Jaber, Ralph Billingsley
Visitors: Thanks to Mike and Paul for taking spells as the official counter and excellent assistance was provided by Corrine, Jacob, Jeremy, Liz, Mike, Ralph and Scott. Great to see Lou, Toni and Jim and Scott and Rochelle, Steve and Trudy, Mel, Joanne, Mike and Jane, Wanda, Lyn and Bill who all took a great interest in the Hawk Watch, the Pelicans and other birds on the marsh.
Weather: Moderate wind from the NW for most of the day, starting clear but becoming cloudy later on. Very clear visibility with temperature rising to a comfortable 18c. Pressure stable at just below 30.
Raptor Observations: Turkey Vultures (4262) again ruled the roost with streams passing overhead from mid morning onwards. Sharp-shinned Hawks (47) and Red-tailed Hawks (47) were the most of the rest. A great view of an adult Red-shouldered Hawk perched in trees just west of the tower was a bonus.
Non-raptor Observations: Good variety of ducks with 9 species seen, Ring-necked Duck (221) the most numerous. Amazing views of large flights of American White Pelicans over the tower, together with many on the marsh with a season high of 800. Blue Jay (5000) numbers a little down today. Good variety of Warbler and Vireos with 9 species seen. The list is at: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278767489
Predictions: A moderate wind from the NE is forecast until late morning switching to East. Cloudy skies should help raptor observation. There will likely be the same mix as today, but possibly lower numbers after the wind change. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Hugh Kent (<Hughnkent...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 10/11/25 4:19 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (11 Oct 2025) 4397 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 11, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 16:00:00
Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Andrew Sturgess, Jo Patterson
Observers: Andrew Sturgess, Bill Peregord, Don Sherwood,
Johannes Postma, Mark Hainen, Michelle Peregord,
Natalie Cypher, Paul Cypher, Rosemary Brady
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
Weatherwise, a day of twists and turns. A look through my pictures shows
blue backgrounds, as well as shots showing a leaden-gray heavy stratus
layer that moved in from time to time. At other times, it was a pleasant
mix of bright cumulus clouds and a blue background. The real-feel
temperatures, and the comfort level of the watchers, rose and fell with the
constantly changing percentage of cloud cover. It was early winter one
moment, and late summer the next. The actual temperature reached
sixty-three degrees. The barometer was fairly steady in the 30.1” range.
The winds were variable, as per usual. Almost nonexistent at the beginning
of the watch, they rose in speed to ten mph from a westerly direction, only
to switch to the north-northwest, and rise and fall in strength from that
direction.
Raptor Observations:
We saw many different flight-lines today, as sometimes turkey vultures’
kettles would split into different sects and depart on their own paths.
The rest of the birds took the very high road for the most part, our neck
muscles tell the tale. The gold was taken by the turkey vultures, as they
should in October, with four thousand, three hundred and twenty birds.
These birds are fascinating to watch as they stream overhead in their
motionless gliding pose hundreds at a time. Sharp-shins beat out the
red-tails by five markers for the silver, with a count of twenty-nine to
twenty-four. Harriers were flying pretty high today and only five were
noted. Four was the number shared by kestrels and bald eagles. Other
falcons present, were one peregrine and one merlin. We had two
red-shouldered hawks. Two golden eagles passed over, nearly together, late
in the day, and our special guest today was an American Goshawk that passed
high overhead after soaring across the slip.
Non-raptor Observations:
The pelicans were feeling their oats today as they had more air time than
we have seen all season. Large flights were seen all over the sky, and for
possibly the first time ever, we had pelican “flak” that was
interfering with counting the raptors, as they sometimes flew in front of
turkey vulture flights, obscuring our view. All of our three terns were
seen today, Caspian, Forster’s, and common. We had not seen the long
strings of cormorants for a few days, but they are still here. Great egrets
seem to be flying higher and in greater numbers the last few days.
Pied-billed grebes are still seeking sustenance in the slip. The blue jay
numbers are waning fast with eight hundred and twenty today. Soon, the
crows will replace them as the bird to count. Only one monarch was seen
today.
Predictions:
Winds are predicted to be northeast, veering to east at some point in the
day. Who knows what they will actually do, but they should stay in the five
to ten mph range. Just enough to tighten the skin on your face by day’s
end. Partly sunny is the forecast, but it looks like it may be either
sunny, or cloudy, by turns, as it was today. Temperatures, despite the
winds from the north, will be about five degrees higher than today. The
barometer will be fairly stable again, staying above the thirty-inch mark.
I suspect we will continue to see flights of turkey vultures and the usual
suspects, although not in huge numbers.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Andrew Sturgess (<ajyes72...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Date: 10/10/25 4:29 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (10 Oct 2025) 2798 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 10, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Bill Peregord, Johannes Postma, Michelle Peregord,
Rosemary Brady
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating
raptors.
Weather:
Thin veils of cirrus clouds spiraled and stretched across the sky, carried
by a sometimes not-so-gentle 10 mph breeze. Southern winds brought milder
temperatures, climbing from 50 to 68 degrees, though jackets were still
needed once our picnic tables slipped into afternoon shade. The barometer
began its descent, settling just above 30 inches, where it looks to
stagnate for the next few days.
Raptor Observations:
We were pleased with today’s flight. Although two thousand seven hundred
and ninety-eight raptors pale in comparison to the totals from the past two
days, it was all we could have hoped for on southern winds. A steady push
of Turkey Vultures arrived in the late morning, followed by a lull around
lunchtime and then an afternoon burst of activity. Few of October’s other
“usual suspects” made appearances: twenty-five sharp-shins, seven
harriers, seven red-tails, and three Bald Eagles.
Non-raptor Observations:
Yellow-rumps continue to forage in the maples. Mallards, cormorants, and
ring-bills streamed past by the hundreds. A small group of Pelicans passed
overhead, though most remained grounded by the jetty. Two hundred and
eighty Blue Jays were tallied, and no Monarchs were seen.
Predictions:
Tomorrow looks like a toss-up. Winds are forecast to shift north but remain
light, so it could turn out to be a great day—or just an okay one. Either
way, cooler air and cloud cover will keep temperatures low, so bring a
jacket if you plan to come out.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Jo Patterson (<jopatterson06...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Erik van den Kieboom
Observers:
Visitors: Two school groups visited us today. We would like to thank Brian and Fran for helping with the count, and Marcos, Lou, Toni, Linda, and Todd for visiting us today.
Weather: Sunny all day with some cloud, temperatures increasing from 13 to 18C during the count period. Winds began from the north before slowly shifting to the southwest.
Raptor Observations: Lower numbers overall compared to the past few days. Decent movement of Turkey Vultures in the late morning, with smaller numbers of Sharp-shinned Hawks, Red-tailed Hawks, and Northern Harriers.
Non-raptor Observations: Including raptors, 71 species were observed today. Some highligths included two Red-headed Woodpeckers and a pair of Purple Martins. Today's ebird list can be found here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278396263
Predictions: Tomorrow should be sunny with some cloud and a moderate north wind. Raptors will likely be passing over close to the tower, giving good views. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erik van den Kieboom (<ErikKieboom...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 10/9/25 3:51 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (09 Oct 2025) 11065 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 09, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 16:00:00
Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Andrew Sturgess, Don Sherwood, Jerry Jourdan,
Johannes Postma, Rosemary Brady, Sam Heilman
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
A little more pleasant weather day today. Perhaps a large part of that due
to the fact that we were better prepared sartorially. Winds were northeast
at the start, as predicted, rising to eight mph, then dying completely,
rising from the ashes in a more easterly state of mind at the end of the
day. This changed the flight line by ninety-degrees from cutting over Lake
Erie to flying over Celeron Island. Regardless of the wind direction, the
Cleanup-On-Any-Aisle birds, the turkey vultures, kept coming. It was a
mostly sunny day with a smattering of small clouds at the site. Some
cumulus cloud bands could be seen well off in the distance. Temperatures
reached the predicted mark, topping out at sixty- degrees. The barometer
reached its high for the coming week at 30.56”. It should be declining
tomorrow.
Raptor Observations:
Not a bad follow up to the previous day, as a providential wind kept its
promise to deliver the goods. The goods being ten thousand, nine hundred
and fifty-two turkey vultures, the stars of October. In their own way,
these birds can be nearly as tricky to follow as the broadwings. Especially
when taking the high road in a bright blue clear sky. When you do spot
them, you can’t help but think of bomber squadrons in formation as they
glide towards you without moving a wing. It was a full-time job counting
them today as they shifted around, the kettles drifting on the winds as
they tried to make up their minds which direction to take. Some would turn
back halfway over the lake to re-kettle, especially in the morning hours.
We stayed the course though, although some of us are suffering from a case
of Marty Feldman eye syndrome. Sharpies won the silver with forty-one being
counted. Red-tails took the bronze with thirty-six. The falcon hat-trick
was accomplished with twelve kestrels, and one each of the merlin and
peregrine species. Six was the number for both red-shouldered hawks and
broad-winged hawks. Four Cooper’s hawks were tallied, the same number as
bald eagles. One harrier made a late appearance in the overtime period.
Non-raptor Observations:
The pelicans were up in the air today. Many of them in flight and in many
locations around the sky. They did not match yesterday’s large assemblage
in numbers, but they seemed to enjoy the winds. Too bad we had little time
to appreciate them. The common terns were diving again today, the minnows
must be to their liking. A beaver was spotted swimming in the slip in front
of us. The park had some resident beavers, a few years back, but they were
removed as they had a predilection for gnawing trees close to the nature
trails, putting visitors at risk. We did see a flock of small shorebirds
from a distance, no ID possible. The blue jays put up decent numbers, but
off their highs, with three thousand, six hundred. Only one monarch was
spotted, in the first hour.
Predictions:
Winds may determine out fate tomorrow, but not in a good way, as it has the
last two days. Southwest winds, climbing from a mellow four mph to a more
robust twelve, should move the birds to the north, if it does its normal
thing. There should be a little more cloud cover and temperatures should be
higher by about six-degrees. The barometer should be falling. This is our
least favorite wind, especially at higher speeds. Most birds are sensitive
to wind direction, as we saw today when the wind and the flight lines
changed. It’s unlikely that our numbers tomorrow will match todays.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Andrew Sturgess (<ajyes72...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Visitors: We would like to thank Noel, Mike, Juliette, Baylana, and Jude for helping with the count today. We would also like to thank Marcos, Lou, Toni, David, Mel, Yvonne, and Fern for visiting us today.
Weather: Sunny, clear skies all day with temperatures increasing from 9 to 20C during the count period. Strong NE winds in the morning switching to a light south wind by the end of the period.
Raptor Observations: Large numbers of Turkey Vultures were moving late morning/early afternoon, along with good numbers of Sharp-shinned Hawks and Red-tailed Hawks.
Non-raptor Observations: Including raptors, we observed 79 species of birds. Some highlights included 3 Red-headed Woodpeckers and lots of Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers migrating. Today's ebird list can be found here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278213789
Predictions: Tomorrow's conditions should be sunny with partial cloud and a moderate SW wind. This will likely push raptors further away from the tower, making viewing conditions unfavourable. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erik van den Kieboom (<ErikKieboom...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 10/8/25 10:32 pm From: Fred Kaluza <fredkaluza...> Subject: Re: [birders] What creature is this?
Thanks George. I’ll go with “Spring Peeper” then. If I ever confirm it’s something else I’ll let the group know. Thanks!
________________________________
From: 'George Hammond' via Birders <birders...>
Sent: Wednesday, October 8, 2025 12:11:43 AM
To: BIRDERS@UMICH <birders...>
Subject: Re: [birders] What creature is this?
On Oct 6, 2025, at 10:29 AM, Fred Kaluza <fkaluza...> wrote:
For the last couple months (at least), I’ve heard this single call note in the early evenings. Also, in the early mornings. Merlin does not recognize it as a bird but…in the area are Squirrels, Chipmunks, Tree Frogs, Woodchucks. Could these be Tree Frogs?
It sounds like a maybe spring peeper to me. It’s not unusual to hear a few males calling in the fall after we have some cold nights. They spend the winter in a nearly-frozen dormant state, and start breeding as soon as we get spring thaws, so they amp up their breeding hormones before winter. Plus now we have the same day length as when they breed in the spring.
It would be very weird to have heard them in August though. Fall calling doesn’t usually start till September or October, after we have some chilly nights. So maybe I’m wrong about the ID, or maybe it was some bird you were hearing then?
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Date: 10/8/25 4:31 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (08 Oct 2025) 13828 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 08, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 17:00:00
Total observation time: 9 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Andrew Sturgess, Bill Peregord, Don Sherwood, Jerry Jourdan,
Johannes Postma, Rosemary Brady, Sam Heilman
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
For those of us wishing for a break from the unseasonably hot weather, we
had the full immersion therapy today. Lesson learned: be careful what your
wish for. A seasonably cold blast of air coming from the north-northwest,
according to the weather station, but a little more westerly as we saw it,
made most of us wish for one more layer. The wind started at eight mph and
rose to twelve before easing in the mid-afternoon hour and veering more to
the north. It was at that time that our fortunes also veered to the
positive side. The temperature was right on the sixty-degree mark. The
barometer was telling the birds it was time to go, as it rose after the
rains had passed. The skies were mostly clear, although the Ohio side of
the lake had lots of convection cumulus clouds, since the wind was blowing
in their direction for a change.
Raptor Observations:
Until the wind shifted, we had little luck today. Most of the usual
suspects were not present, Turkey vultures kept us on the lookout, but they
only served hors d’oeuvres in the morning hours, saving the entrée for
the afternoon and overtime hours. We ended the day, as stream after stream
came out of the haze over Canada, with at total of thirteen thousand, seven
hundred and seventy-three tiny red heads.
For the most part, we couldn’t buy another species most of the day. Only
twenty-eight sharpies fought their way into the opposing winds. Thirteen
red-tails made it to the 48173 Zip Code. Four bald eagles were counted,
although our locals seem to love the high winds. Three red-shouldered hawks
flashed their crescents. Two straggler broad-winged hawks came along for
the ride. Two kestrels were buffeted by the blast. I would be remiss if I
did not mention the special guest star of the day, spotted when Jo, our
sharped-eyed counter, decided that one of these things did not look like
the others. It had a distinctive color to the trailing edge of the wings,
the color of a Swainson’s hawk. It was traveling with many turkey
vultures and a juvenile bald eagle.
Non-raptor Observations:
We had a large flight of pelicans today, the largest we have seen at the
site, estimated at nearly four-hundred birds. They did not stay aloft long,
but it was a very impressive sight. A small flock of common terns made a
few brief appearances today. Caspian and Forster’s terns were also noted.
The blue jays, for once, were overshadowed by the turkey vultures. They
still managed a respectable total of five thousand, seven hundred and
ninety birds. The monarchs had no stomach for the blustery winds, with only
one showing up.
Predictions:
Tomorrow might be a more comfortable day in that the winds should be less
in-our-face than it was today. Speeds should be more moderate, in the five
to seven mph range. Direction is predicted to be northeasterly heading to
easterly so we may see some more of the usual suspects tomorrow as they
won’t be pushed so far away. The barometer will continue to rise.
Temperatures should be the same, right on the sixty-degree mark. No clouds
will impede our view, back to the Blue Sky of Death. It’s hard to follow
up a very low round in golf with a similar round, so we may not see as many
birds tomorrow, but the signs are all positive. Dress warmly.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Andrew Sturgess (<ajyes72...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Observation start time: 06:30:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 9.5 hours
Official Counter: Erik van den Kieboom
Observers: Baylana Hiebert, Chuck Sharbaugh, Hugh Kent, Juliette Herdman, Liz Kent, Mike Jaber, Noel Herdman, Paul Pratt, Peter Veighey
Visitors: We would like to thank Mike, Noel, Chuck, Peter, Juliette, and Paul for helping with the count today. We would also like to thank Lou, Toni, Marcos, Robin, Karen, Kate, Guy, Barry, Bob, Megan, Alban, Heather, Michelle, and Mel for visiting us today.
Weather: Sunny with some cloud all day with a strong north wind throughout the count period. Temperatures increased from 12 to 18C during the count period.
Raptor Observations: Very good numbers moving through today, especially Turkey Vultures. Vultures began moving in the late morning and steadily increased throughout the count period. Good numbers of Sharp-shinned Hawks, Red-tailed Hawks, and American Kestrels were on the move, in addition to lower numbers of Cooper's, Red-shouldered, and Broad-winged Hawks.
Non-raptor Observations: Including raptors, we observed 82 species of birds today. Some highlights included an Orange-crowned Warbler and a few Pectoral Sandpipers. Today's ebird list can be found here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278057664
Predictions: Tomorrow we are expecting sunny skies with some cloud and moderate NE winds. This should cause raptors to move over closer to the tower for the majority of the day. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erik van den Kieboom (<ErikKieboom...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
You can view past postings and historical crane countingdata on
*NEW* Haehnle web site *NEW*
JASBlog page
And on JAS or Haehnle FB pages
Regards,
Steve Jerant
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Date: 10/7/25 9:12 pm From: 'George Hammond' via Birders <birders...> Subject: Re: [birders] What creature is this?
On Oct 6, 2025, at 10:29 AM, Fred Kaluza <fkaluza...> wrote:
>
> For the last couple months (at least), I’ve heard this single call note in the early evenings. Also, in the early mornings. Merlin does not recognize it as a bird but…in the area are Squirrels, Chipmunks, Tree Frogs, Woodchucks. Could these be Tree Frogs?
It sounds like a maybe spring peeper to me. It’s not unusual to hear a few males calling in the fall after we have some cold nights. They spend the winter in a nearly-frozen dormant state, and start breeding as soon as we get spring thaws, so they amp up their breeding hormones before winter. Plus now we have the same day length as when they breed in the spring.
It would be very weird to have heard them in August though. Fall calling doesn’t usually start till September or October, after we have some chilly nights. So maybe I’m wrong about the ID, or maybe it was some bird you were hearing then?
regards,
George
--
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Date: 10/7/25 4:10 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (07 Oct 2025) 569 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 07, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 3 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Jerry Jourdan
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating
raptors.
Weather:
Today, we found ourselves in a familiar predicament—caught between two
bands of rain and getting showers from both as they moved east. From 11
a.m. onward, the rain was steady; it eased to a drizzle at times, but full
showers were never far behind. Winds shifted to the north as the cold front
pushed through, growing stronger as the day went on. Both temperature and
barometric pressure held steady at 68°F and 30 inches.
Raptor Observations:
The day was mostly a washout, except for one thrilling 30-minute burst of
activity. Celeron kicked things off with an initial fleet of 100 Turkey
Vultures that kettled along the horizon before turning south. Somewhere
along the way, they picked up a few hundred friends, and soon all five
hundred and sixty-five crossed the seawall in a matter of minutes. Stowed
within their ranks were two sharp-shins. The two falcons seen today,
usually known for their hasty departures, meandered through the clouds. A
lone kestrel hawked insects within a dense swarm of swallows before finally
heading out, while the peregrine made lazy circles over the river before
drifting south.
Non-raptor Observations:
Two local Bald Eagles and a Cooper’s Hawk made brief appearances. A
single vulture lingered for a while before returning to the antennas, where
our six resident birds typically roost. Blue Jays gave a decent showing
with six hundred and twenty counted. Only one monarch butterfly was
spotted, likely one of the last that we will see this season. We may get
another week of Blue Jays before their numbers taper off too. A
Red-breasted Nuthatch joined two Yellow-rumped Warblers in the maple.
Predictions:
Tomorrow looks promising. With the rain behind us, northern winds at 6–11
mph, and a rising barometer, Turkey Vultures should be moving. Hopefully,
the lingering high-pressure system has created a backlog of migrants eager
to fly tomorrow.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Jo Patterson (<jopatterson06...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Observation start time: 06:30:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 7.5 hours
Official Counter: Erik van den Kieboom
Observers: Noel Herdman
Visitors: Two school groups visited us today. Thank you to Noel for helping with the count and to Cindy and Fred for visiting us today.
Weather: Overcast and warm all day with occasional sunny breaks and some light drizzle. Temperatures increased from 21 to 24C during the count period. Strong winds in the early morning starting from the southwest then shifting to the north by early afternoon.
Raptor Observations: Raptor movement was slow all morning, with a notable increase in the early afternoon following a break in the rain. Large numbers of Turkey Vultures and small numbers of Sharp-shinned Hawks and American Kestrels made up the bulk of the raptor movement.
Non-raptor Observations: Including raptors, 75 species of birds were observed during the count period. Some highlights included a flock of 26 American Golden-plovers and over 400 American White Pelicans. The bird list for today's count can be found here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277874704
Predictions: Tomorrow we are expecting a moderate north wind and mostly sunny conditions. It will likely be a very good day for observing large numbers of raptors close to the tower. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erik van den Kieboom (<ErikKieboom...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 10/6/25 2:49 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (06 Oct 2025) 317 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 06, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Andrew Sturgess, Don Sherwood, Johannes Postma
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
Sad news. Someone saw fit to abscond with our Detroit River Hawk Watch
banner overnight. It was of little value, except to us. Today was also of
little value as a day of migration. Steadily growing winds off the lake
served to push most birds out of our sight, although a determined few made
the journey to our location. I can’t say that the conditions were ideal
as far as haze went, but it was marginally better today, allowing us to see
the turkey vultures a little more clearly. A flotilla of cumulus clouds,
apparently in no hurry to sail despite the insistent winds, kept us company
off to the northwest. The sky over the lake was essentially clear.
Temperatures once again broached the eighty-degree mark with room to spare,
as the southern winds, smelling of southwestern cuisine, brought the heat.
The barometer is falling a little, as rain appears to be on the way
tomorrow.
Raptor Observations:
The usual early October suspects filled the roster today. Turkey vultures
provided the bulk of the tally with two hundred and forty-four. Sharp-shins
claimed the silver, as per usual, with fifty-nine “flying mushrooms.”
Northern harriers totaled six. The kestrels were late arriving today, but
ended with three notches in the belt. One Cooper’s hawk and one peregrine
completed today’s count.
Non-raptor Observations:
The pelicans were back today, both flying and roosting out by the jetty. A
yellow-rumped warbler visited the small maple by our location. Both
Forster’s and Caspian terns were seen today. Tree swallows have been
present this year in smaller numbers than their historical levels, but
today made up for it, with many of them sweeping the skies. They are
usually a source of flak that makes it hard to search for birds, but today,
since we had few birds to search for, it wasn’t a problem. The blue jays
were on the move today with seven thousand, three hundred flying by, and
sometimes, directly over us. Monarchs were hard to find with only
twenty-one answering the bell today.
Predictions:
Change is on the way. Although the winds will start in the south tomorrow,
they will flip to the north and bring blessed relief from this unseasonal
heat wave that we have been in. Temperatures should drop by fifteen degrees
tomorrow, and even more on Wednesday. Hallelujah. Rain is in the forecast,
but who knows how much, and when. Rains have a habit of splitting around
our site as the lake asserts its influence. There should be plenty of cloud
for the rain to fall from, should it choose to do so. The barometer will be
at its bottom tomorrow, with a sharp rise starting late in the day, and
continuing through Wednesday. This turbulence and change should affect our
fortunes in a positive way, the timing is hard to predict tomorrow, but
Wednesday looks interesting.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Andrew Sturgess (<ajyes72...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Observation start time: 06:30:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 7.5 hours
Official Counter: Erik van den Kieboom
Observers: Aldo Bertucci, Baylana Hiebert, Hugh Kent, Liz Kent, Mike Jaber, Noel Herdman, Peter Veighey
Visitors: A huge thank you to Noel, Mike, Aldo, and Peter for helping with the count today. We would also like to thank Lou, Toni, Linda, Ryan, Michael, and Kyle for visiting us today.
Weather: Sunny with partial cloud all day, with temperatures increasing from 21 to 30C during the count period. Winds were light and shifted from the southwest to the southeast by late morning.
Raptor Observations: Raptor numbers were relatively low today, with some highlights including a Golden Eagle and a couple of Peregrine Falcons. Turkey Vultures and Sharp-shinned hawks were the most common raptors today, although Sharp-shinned Hawks didn't start moving until 9:00 am.
Non-raptor Observations: Including raptors, we observed 73 species today. Some highlights included a Red-headed Woodpecker and over 31,000 Blue Jays. The bird list can be found here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277705733
Predictions: Tomorrow we are expecting thunder storms and lots of rain, so we will likely not be able to have a count. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erik van den Kieboom (<ErikKieboom...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 10/6/25 7:29 am From: Fred Kaluza <fkaluza...> Subject: [birders] What creature is this?
________________________________
For the last couple months (at least), I’ve heard this single call note in the early evenings. Also, in the early mornings. Merlin does not recognize it as a bird but…in the area are Squirrels, Chipmunks, Tree Frogs, Woodchucks. Could these be Tree Frogs?
--
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Date: 10/5/25 2:30 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (05 Oct 2025) 144 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 05, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Andrew Sturgess
Observers: Bill Peregord, Don Sherwood, Michelle Peregord, Sam Heilman
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
Well, at least the Tigers won. By my reckoning, we have one more day of
purgatory in the BSOD world we have been living in. We are on the west side
of a high-pressure zone, and they are so large nowadays that four days of
southerly winds are guaranteed. We should have one more day before the
skies may cloud up, and a little rain may fall. After that, we should see
the winds switch the north and temperatures drop to a more seasonally
normal high. We are surrounded by a curtain of haze. Perhaps it’s clean
smog from “clean coal”, that prevents us from peering into the
distance, the way we normally do. Turkey vultures are doing David
Copperfield disappearing acts in front of our eyes. Poof, they are gone,
never to be seen again. The southern winds usually bring heat, and today
was no exception, with the temperature reaching the mid-eighties. Winds
were light to start, but starting climbing at midday, eventually reaching
nearly fifteen mph. That effectively cleaned the sky of birds, as they were
turning west well before they reached us. The barometer stayed above 30”,
as it will through Tuesday, despite the inclement weather coming. It should
rebound on Wednesday. There were some cumulus clouds to the west of us, but
our sky was nothing but blue.
Raptor Observations:
There was no joy in Mudville today, even thought the sun was shining.
Unless of course, blue jays are your thing. Turkey vultures won the race,
but we suspect there were more to be seen, if only we could. One hundred
and fourteen took the gold. Twenty-two sharpies struggled into the wind to
take the silver. Other birds were scarce, two Cooper’s hawks, red-tailed
hawks and peregrine falcons. Only one each of the bald eagle and American
kestrel species.
Non-raptor Observations:
Jays were the main movers today with eleven thousand, six hundred and
thirty keeping the clicker smoking. The American white pelicans came back
to their roosting place near the Celeron jetty, twenty were seen flying
together, and smaller groups later landed at the roosting spot. A single
common tern made a lap around the slip this morning. A pair of Forster’s
terns were later spotted over the lake. We did see the Caspian tern
yesterday, but not today. Canada geese are practicing their formation
flying, with plenty of verbal criticisms being given during the flights.
The monarchs fell victim to the winds today with only thirty-three showing
up.
Predictions:
Tomorrow should show a little more cloud than today, but the winds, the
winds will still be from the south. Once again, they will climb during the
watch from seven to twelve mph. Once again, the temperatures will reflect
the direction from which the winds come, and hit the mid-eighties. The
barometer should drop slightly, and bottom out on Tuesday. I would not
place a heavy bet on tomorrow, or the next day, but Wednesday, as it is
forecast, shows promise. It should be a brisk day with cold northern winds
in our face, only reaching the sixty-degree mark. Bring an extra layer.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Andrew Sturgess (<ajyes72...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Paul Gosselin
Observers: Hugh Kent, Liz Kent, Mike Jaber
Visitors: Big thanks to Paul G for being official counter and for Mike and Robin for helping out with the count as well.
Weather: Mostly South West changing to South East in the afternoon most of the day light haze. Temperature quite warm as the day went on.
Raptor Observations: Turkey vultures taking top spot with 946, followed by Sharp-shinned Hawks with 46. Good to see a Golden Eagle mid afternoon far to the north from the tower.
Non-raptor Observations: Pelican numbers going up with 169 on the marsh. Blue jays 31,250, a bit more than yesterday. Duck are still far back on the marsh and very hard to count. The list is at https://ebird.org/checklist/S277513322
Predictions: Forecast for tomorrow is a moderate wind from southwest under cloudy skies. Mix and numbers of raptors likely to be similar to today. We always hope for more falcons. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Paul Gosselin (<paulgosselin25...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 10/4/25 3:08 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (04 Oct 2025) 158 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 04, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Andrew Sturgess, Jo Patterson
Observers: Andrew Sturgess, Johannes Postma, Rosemary Brady
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating
raptors.
Weather:
The haze was worse than yesterday and thickened as the day went on. It was
heavy and gray, stretching up from the horizon and blocking nearly a
vertical mile of our view. Canada was nothing more than a faint shadow
across the lake and the antenna were completely obscured. A few scattered
cumulus clouds in the morning vanished by 10 a.m.
Raptor Observations:
Raptors appeared suddenly overhead, hidden by the haze until they broke
above it. Instead of scanning the treetops, we had to search along the haze
line for movement. Sharpies started the day once again, and it took more
than three hours before another species joined the count. Sharp-shinned
Hawks totaled sixty-one but were still outnumbered by Turkey Vultures, who
tallied ninety-two. The vultures arrived in two kettles low over Celeron,
and instead of their usual lazy back-and-forth drifting, they streamed out
quickly and vanished into the haze. The day also brought three harriers,
one peregrine, and one kestrel—marking a notably low species diversity.
Non-raptor Observations:
Even local birds were quiet today. Highlights included an adult Bald Eagle,
a juvenile Osprey, and a juvenile Cooper’s Hawk. An Indigo Bunting made
its presence known from the top of the red maple. Over six thousand Blue
Jays were counted, along with thirty-eight monarchs.
Predictions:
Warm temperatures and southern winds continue tomorrow. We expect another
slow day, especially if the haze lingers.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Jo Patterson (<jopatterson06...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Mike Jaber, Paul Gosselin
Observers: Hugh Kent, Liz Kent, Peter Veighey
Visitors: Big thanks to Mike, and Paul for sharing official counter duties with Hugh and Liz observing and Peter who helped out counting the Blue Jays. It was good to see Mike and Stephanie again, and Rachel and Nikki who took a great interest in the hawk watch.
Weather: The wind was light from the south. Generally clear sky but hazy. Temperature almost reach 27c in the afternoon.
Raptor Observations: Turkey Vultures took top spot with 1006, trailed by Sharp-Shinned Hawks at 92. The remainder didn't reach double figures.
Non-raptor Observations: Blue Jay numbers maintained high at 41,770. Fair numbers of birds down low around the tower. A Northern Water snake was seen crossing the trail towards marsh. The list is at: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277274488
Predictions: The forecast for tomorrow is similar to today but the wind is slightly stronger than today. Hopefully that will mean more raptors flying. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Paul Gosselin (<paulgosselin25...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 10/3/25 5:44 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (03 Oct 2025) 122 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 03, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Jerry Jourdan
Visitors:
Huge thank you to GMAS, whose members helped out with the count today.
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
A hazy, azure-blue sky stretched overhead, and the drought-stressed leaves
still stubbornly cling to their green color. Lake Erie shimmered in the
sunlight as summer hung on, with temperatures nudging 80 degrees and a
gentle southern breeze prevailing. The winds stayed light, never topping 5
mph, but their unhelpful direction—combined with a thickening haze—made
spotting raptors a real challenge. Despite our best efforts, only vague,
shadowy silhouettes appeared to the north, and the south was mostly empty
of migrants.
Raptor Observations:
We got skunked in the first hour, and things didn’t improve much after
that. Only three hours reached double digits, and we barely cracked triple
digits for the day. An unimpressive flight of sixty-two Turkey Vultures
took top honors, mostly gathered in three small kettles around noon. Later
in the afternoon, two were spotted far to the north, a painful reminder
that more were likely crossing the Detroit River closer to Wyandotte, out
of our view—especially with the low visibility. Sharp-shinned Hawks did
their best to keep us entertained, trickling by one at a time every few
minutes, totaling forty-nine for the day. After a particularly long stretch
of “sharpie, sharpie, sharpie,” the count turned into a game of
“sharpie… sharpie… not sharpie.” The “not sharpie” list
included five harriers, two coops, one Bald Eagle, one red-tail, one
kestrel, and one Merlin.
Non-raptor Observations:
Common Terns, Caspian Terns, and Forster’s Terns fished the Trenton
Channel. A local Cooper’s Hawk made a low pass, and the local Osprey was
glimpsed by Celeron. Kinglets and warblers rustled about the shrubs. Blue
Jays made a decent effort, with over two thousand counted; Monarchs, not so
much, with only twenty-three.
Predictions:
Tomorrow doesn't look much more promising than today. The winds will remain
out of the south, but higher velocities are predicted. Turkey Vultures may
find any wind better than no wind and could make an appearance.
Temperatures are set to top 80, and clouds are unlikely. At the very least,
we can look forward to another round of the always-entertaining game:
sharpie… sharpie… not sharpie.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Jerry Jourdan (<jerry.jourdan...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Observation start time: 06:30:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 7.5 hours
Official Counter: Erik van den Kieboom
Observers: Hugh Kent, Liz Kent, Mike Jaber
Visitors: Thank you to Mike for helping with the count during the morning hours! Thank you to Lou, Tori, Edward, John, and Robin for visiting us today!
Weather: Sunny, cloudless skies all day, with temperatures increasing from 16 to 26C during the count period. Wind was fairly light today, starting from the northwest and shifting to the southwest by late morning, and then to the southeast in the afternoon. Visibility was reduced in the morning by fog, but eventually cleared up mid-morning.
Raptor Observations: Raptor numbers were lower today compared to the past couple of days. Sharp-shinned Hawks and Northern Harriers began moving in the early morning close to the lakeshore due to more northerly winds. As the winds shifted southward, raptor movement began to shift far to the north, with distant views of most birds. Activity picked up in the late morning/early afternoon, with good numbers of Turkey Vultures, Sharp-shinned Hawks, and lower numbers of buteos, harriers, and falcons.
Non-raptor Observations: We observed 81 species of birds, including raptors, during the count period. Some highlights included the first Ring-necked Ducks, Redheads, and Common Loon of the season. Today's bird list can be found here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277065881
Predictions: Tomorrow's forecast is calling for southerly winds and sunny skies, with a high of 28C. Wind speeds are expected to be within 10-15 km/h. This will likely push raptor movement further to the north, and this combined with cloudless skies will make raptors harder to spot. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erik van den Kieboom (<ErikKieboom...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 10/2/25 3:56 pm From: Allen Chartier <amazilia3...> Subject: [birders] Resending link to bird banding blog
Everyone,
I have been informed that some users do not get my blog from the link I sent, but instead are directed to an advertisement for Google Blogger. I have no idea why the link I've used for years is no longer working. I apologize for the mixup. Here's a new link that I tested that does seem to work.
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Erik van den Kieboom
Observers: Baylana Hiebert, Hugh Kent, Liz Kent
Visitors: Thank you to Dan, Peter, Judy, Dennis, and Marianne for visiting us today!
Weather: Sunny with partial cloud all day, with a temperature between 13 and 25C throughout the day. Wind direction started in the northeast in the morning and gradually shifted to a southeast wind by the end of the day. Wind speed decreased throughout the day as the wind shifted southward.
Raptor Observations: Good movement of Sharp-shinned Hawks, Red-tailed Hawks, and Turkey Vultures today. Other notable highlights included the first Red-shouldered Hawks of the season, and a Golden Eagle. Raptor movement was initially concentrated closer to the lakeshore, but moved further inland as the wind shifted to the southeast.
Non-raptor Observations: Strong movement of Blue Jays throughout the day, though less than yesterday. Other noteworthy observations included Rusty Blackbird, Palm Warbler, Pine Siskins, and a late Least Flycatcher.
Predictions: Tomorrow we are expecting clear skies and warm temperatures with SSW winds. Raptors will likely be moving further inland, and this combined with blue skies means they'll be more distant and harder to see. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erik van den Kieboom (<ErikKieboom...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 10/2/25 3:38 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (02 Oct 2025) 868 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 02, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Andrew Sturgess, Bill Peregord, Sam Heilman
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
Well, the sky was interesting today, as if a Pollack, Jack Frost, and
Mondrian menage a trois had a baby. Straight parallel contrails mixed with
wispy cirrus mare’s tails and other aircraft contrails in various states
of bloom and dispersion. It was a glorious mess of streaks and delicate
daubs of ice clouds. It had the added bonus of cutting the glare from the
otherwise bright blue sky. Something we had been hoping for over the last
few days. The temperature reached seventy-eight degrees and the barometer
started a very gradual decline. The winds had dropped to zero from a
northeast wind at the start of the watch and then did its usual about-face
to the southeast, climbing in strength throughout the day.
Raptor Observations:
The turkey vultures, as they probably will for most of October, took the
gold today. Six hundred and eighty-eight were counted, coming by in
irregular spurts. The sharpies were back in the game today with one hundred
and nineteen tallied. Red-tailed hawks took third with a slightly more
vigorous performance than the broadwings, beating them by a single bird,
nineteen to eighteen. It was good to see the normal companion bird with the
red-tail, the red-shouldered hawk, show up for the first time this season
today, with two juvies. Harriers showed fourteen white rumps today. Only
two kestrels made the tote board today, the same number as the peregrine
falcons. Two Cooper’s hawks were counted and one bald eagle completed the
tally of eight hundred and sixty-eight birds.
Non-raptor Observations:
Thankfully, the gulls were kettling in the distance today, feasting on
insects up aloft. A flight of mute swans added to the general cacophony at
the loudest hawk watch in the world. A diesel-powered payloader was
scooping up the decaying kelp-like vegetation at the boat launch nearby, a
soothing noise to start the day. A flight of common terns was noted in the
morning. The pelicans seemed to have moved from their roosting spot to
another undisclosed location. A battle of the bands took place between a
flicker and red-bellied woodpecker in the trees behind us. The blue jays
were off their game today with only two thousand and forty counted.
Monarchs were scarce, with nineteen making the clicker.
Predictions:
Tomorrow should have southwest winds, but they will be of such low
predicted value as to be unreliable. That is, of course, if you believe the
forecast. Of all the parameters that are forecast, the winds seem to be the
least trusted, at least by us. Normally, that would be a bad wind but if it
is very light, it may not do as much damage as it usually does. It will
apparently bring the heat though, as the temperature will be back over
eighty by a couple of degrees. The clouds should be fading throughout the
day. The barometer will still be in decline, but should be in the 30.1”
range at the end of the day. Hopefully, the winds are strong enough to
provide lift, but not strong enough drive the birds to the north.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Andrew Sturgess (<ajyes72...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Date: 10/2/25 11:23 am From: Fred Kaluza <fkaluza...> Subject: [birders] Some bird, some not, some normal, some…strange
Some new visitors here for the season. A White-crown Sparrow is here as well as a pair of RBNH! Very cool to see the Red-Breasted Nuthatches again after a couple years without. Only time will tell if they stay for the Winter. My regular wild Turkeys have not visited the feeder area for eleven days now although I hear them calling from a hundred yards away. They are making noises they don’t do regularly. Sounds like nervous alert calls. Could they be avoiding the “danger zone” that exists under the canopy of mature 100’ Oaks and Hickory trees during a mast year? It’s to the point that I won’t go under them without a hard hat when the wind is blowing. The Hickory nuts will dent a car hood, roof or trunk if they hit right. They’re the size of golf balls. Next…the weird part…it doesn’t take much to get local Chipmunks all riled-up (territorially) during resource gathering season. I was clipping my toe-nails in the bathroom with the window open and a Chipmunk outside went ballistic apparently concerned an interloper was encroaching on his turf. Next time you “clip”, think about how much it sounds their distress call! Can you believe this string of weather? Wow!
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Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Hugh Kent, Mike Jaber
Observers: Ian Woodfield, Liz Kent, Mike Jaber
Visitors: Big thanks to Mike Jaber for starting off the count, and to Hugh, Liz, and Ian for helping. Also Chris from Philadelphia did a great job counting the Blue Jays. It was nice to meet Aaron from Windsor, Clair and Dan from eastern Ontario, and it was also very good to see Robin, a new member of HBMO.
Weather: Sunny day, mostly clear skies. Wind moderate, originally from the northeast, switching to east late morning. Temperature mostly in the lower 20s, but increased in the last hour to 26C. Visibility good all day. Pressure remained high.
Raptor Observations: Turkey Vultures took the top spot, with 1075, followed by Sharp-shinned Hawks, at 124. A few more Red-tailed Hawks are starting to appear. One interesting sighting later on in the day was a leucistic Turkey Vulture.
Non-raptor Observations:
First of the season Rusty Blackbird and Dark-eyed Junco. Blue Jay numbers being maintained at 71520. Still not many ducks on the marsh, but reasonable numbers of Great Egret, Great Blue Heron, and American White Pelican. Good flight of Yellow-rumped Warblers (57). The list is at: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276724972
Predictions: Wind is forecast to be from the ESE, moderate from the east, under partially cloudy skies. We are likely to have a similar mix to today, but maybe fewer raptors. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erik van den Kieboom (<ErikKieboom...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 10/1/25 3:25 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (01 Oct 2025) 728 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 01, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Andrew Sturgess, Bill Peregord, Don Sherwood, Jerry Jourdan
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
Today was a Gordon Lightfoot kind of day, when the gales of November came
early, or so it seemed. The temperatures were lower as a result of a fairly
robust wind that started northeast, but spent most of the time coming from
a more easterly direction off the lake. It was in our face all day, so an
application of aloe gel was necessary to prevent the facial skin from
turning to human jerky. The temperature reached seventy-one degrees, but it
felt a little short of that due to the winds. The cloud cover was mostly
due to plane contrails, although some high icy cirrus clouds appeared.
Nothing that most people would consider real clouds, providing real shade.
Raptor Observations:
Nothing to see here, move along. It was a disappointing day, even though we
recorded six hundred and eighty-two turkey vultures. Most of them seen in
the second hour, or the final hour. We had little to do between those hours
with only twenty sharpies moving through. They beat the broadwings by one
bird. Three red-tailed hawks rode out the tempest. Only two harriers were
seen today. One peregrine and one bald eagle completed the count.
Non-raptor Observations:
We did see a group of common terns in the morning hours. In the afternoon,
a flock of Bonaparte’s gulls gave a flyby. Hopefully, we will see them
more often and be able to find a little gull with them. The pelicans were
up, but only a handful took to the air. Caspian and Forster’s terns are
still present. The blue jays did not let the winds bother them with eleven
thousand, five hundred, and seventy counted.
Monarchs were fairly rare today, most of the fourteen counted coming in one
hour, when the winds slowed a little at the end of the day. The government
shutdown may affect our ability to post hourly but we will try to continue
to do so.
Predictions:
The winds should ease tomorrow, staying around the five-mph mark. It may
stay mostly east, but wander north or south of that a little. The barometer
should remain high. Cloud cover should be present, but it was supposed to
be here today and never really arrived. The temperature should be about the
same, but a little higher than seventy-degrees. Less wind should be a good
thing, as today it was a little too healthy for our site. Hopefully, we
won’t have another donut hole in the middle of the day tomorrow.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Andrew Sturgess (<ajyes72...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
JacksonAudubon Society - Haehnle Sanctuary Crane Count 09/29/2025 By Don Henise
You can view past postings and historical crane countingdata on
Haehnle web site
JASBlog page
And on JAS or Haehnle FB pages
Regards,Steve Jerant
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Date: 9/30/25 2:57 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (30 Sep 2025) 1006 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Sep 30, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Andrew Sturgess, Don Sherwood, Mark Hainen, Rosemary Brady,
Sam Heilman
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
It was a kind of donut hole day. It seemed that we were going to be busy
all day but when the wind shifted, we had a two-hour hiatus with little to
do but search the BSOD sky. It was another cloudless day with temps
reaching eighty-degrees. Winds came from the northeast, at a stronger pace
than had been usual in the first hours, eventually reaching nine mph at two
p.m. Then it suddenly dropped and changed to an eastern wind. Our birds
suddenly stopped too, resuming at a slower pace in the last hour. It seems
that no matter what the winds are forecast to be, they shift to SE at the
end of the day. The barometer, as it has been doing, dropped at the end of
the day.
Raptor Observations:
As a consolation for having to sit through an avian drought for a couple of
hours, we did receive a little lift at the end of the day when we recorded
our second golden eagle of September, a first for the DRHW.
Spotted by our eagle-eyed (literally in this case) counter, Jo, whose eye
sight is already the stuff of legend, the bird was taking the high road, as
were most of the late travelers. The turkey vultures seemed poised to have
a good day and started off fairly well, but disappeared for a couple of
hours with the others. We ended with seven hundred and fifteen. The
broadwings are still moving in small groups, with one hundred and sixty
being counted. Our sharp-shins let us down today, preferring the poutine at
our sister-site in Ontario to our offerings. We counted eighty-four today.
Seventeen red-tails were counted today, barely beating out the harriers who
had sixteen representatives. Eight kestrels flew by colorfully. No European
kestrels were seen. Two cooper’s hawks were tallied. We saw one each of
merlin, peregrine and osprey.
Non-raptor Observations:
Although we were a little disappointed in the raptor count, we cannot
complain about the blue jay count. Unfortunately, although his carbon fiber
clicker withstood the onslaught, our resident blue jay man was taken off on
a gurney with a compound fracture of the right thumb. It was not really a
surprise after fifteen thousand, five hundred and twelve clicks. Thoughts
and prayers for his thumb. The monarch clicker had a much easier day with
only twenty-seven clicks. The pelicans were up over Canada this morning,
although not in full force. The mute swans are getting more active than
usual, their whistling wings announcing their approach. There are four or
five pied-billed grebes working the slip in front of us. A red-bellied
woodpecker was broadcasting its presence from a nearby maple. A peregrine
falcon was seeking sustenance for breakfast out by the jetty this morning.
He did not appear to succeed.
Predictions:
Mostly sunny tomorrow, as we may get some clouds building throughout the
day. A stronger northeast wind will bring some relief from the heat, with
the temperatures forecast to be ten degrees lower at the seventy-degree
mark. Winds should be in the five to nine mph range, northeast with the
usual fade to a slightly more eastern flavor in the afternoon. We’ll see
whether that holds true. The barometer should be climbing most of the day.
Let’s hope the winds are less fickle than today and we have to do a full
day’s work.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Andrew Sturgess (<ajyes72...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00
Observation end time: 14:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Chad Cornish
Observers: Bob Hall-Brooks, Chuck Sharbaugh, Hugh Kent, Liz Kent,
Mike Jaber, Peter Veighey
Visitors:
Big thanks to Chad who led the count today. Ably assisted by Chuck, Mike,
Peter, Bob, Hugh and Liz. Very grateful to Chris from Philadelphia who
counted all the Bluejays for the day. It was nice to see Lou and Toni, Kyle
and Steph, and Tom with his little sister.
Weather:
Beautiful day with blue sky. Wind moderate from the N switching to E in
the last hour. Barometric pressure remained high throughout the day.
Temperatures became very warm in the afternoon.
Raptor Observations:
Turkey vultures took the top spot with 850, followed by Sharp-shinned Hawks
at 530. Sharp-shinned hawks started with big numbers early. Turkey
Vultures and Broad-winged Hawks came in small kettles together. The best
bird of the day was an immature Golden Eagle right over the tower just
after mid-day.
Non-raptor Observations:
Relatively quiet for songbirds and ducks remained at the far end of the
marsh away from the hunters. American Pelicans are maintaining their
numbers. The list is at https://ebird.org/checklist/S276543198
Predictions:
Tomorrow’s forecast looks very similar to today including a moderate wind
from the NE so hopefully we will have a similar mix of birds as today.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Hugh Kent (<Hughnkent...>)
Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 9/29/25 3:09 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (29 Sep 2025) 1458 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Sep 29, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Andrew Sturgess, Bill Peregord, Don Sherwood, Jerry Jourdan,
Mark Hainen, Rosemary Brady
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
Another day of gazing into the maw of The Great Blue Monster of a sky
without fenestration. A lone cloud appeared but it was of little
consequence and died a quick death. Winds were odd, as usual. Starting out
of the northeast, below five mph but inconsistent in strength, dropping to
zero, and then coming from the east in the afternoon. Temperatures reached
the octogenarian mark, but the afternoon east wind kept us cool. The
barometer keeps dropping in the afternoon, perhaps related in some way to
the wind shifts that seem to occur daily. It surrendered a tenth of an inch
off its high for the day.
Raptor Observations:
The bird movement today seemed a little more normal that yesterday, which
had some odd holes in the flow. Broadwings took back the top step on the
podium with five hundred, and eighty-nine birds. Small kettles added up
over the course of the day. Turkey vultures were sometimes lost to the haze
in the morning hours, but still managed four hundred and sixty-three. The
sharpies seemed to want to make up for yesterday’s meager showing, with
two hundred and eighty-five racing by. Kestrels also had a good day, for
our site, with fifty-four showing their pointed wings. Harriers were back
today, with thirty-four “banging the kettle drums” as they pumped by.
Eagles were on the move today, everyone of them given close scrutiny since
we still have golden eagle fever after yesterday. Sixteen came through,
most in the midday hours. Red-tailed hawks will have their day, but it
wasn’t this day, with six being counted. Four Cooper’s hawks were
noted. Two ospreys were clicked. Three peregrine and two merlin falcons
made the final tally.
Non-raptor Observations:
Our resident egret provided some laughs today as its log perch in the water
was rolling and he had to play lumberjack to keep up. The pelicans were
noted in formation over Celeron, but not their biggest flight, as most are
content to sit the day out on the jetty. The blue jays continue to flood by
in irregular groups with four thousand, one hundred and ninety observed.
The monarchs had a better day with one hundred and two passing through.
Predictions:
It will be interesting to see if the hurricanes that are active right now
will affect our flow of traffic. Already, there is a long plume of cloud
reaching up into Canada from Imelda. It should darken our skies in a couple
of days. Winds will be intensifying over the next couple of days with
northerly winds reaching up to eight mph tomorrow, and double digits on
Wednesday. Tuesday should be another day of blue skies with similar
temperatures as todays. Perhaps, over the next two days, there will be a
rush of birds skirting the potentially bad weather that they may sense. We
will oil the clickers just in case.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Andrew Sturgess (<ajyes72...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Hugh Kent
Observers: Liz Kent, Mike Jaber
Visitors: Big thanks to Mike and Liz for helping out in the morning. Thanks also to Fred and Connie, and also Kate with help on observing. It was good to see Lou and Toni, and Eva, Kayden and David from ERCA. Thanks to Kyle Tom ,and Steph from Hamilton
Weather: Wind moderate from north until mid morning then turned south clear skies all day. Temperature rose to a hot 28C Good visibility all day
Raptor Observations: Sharp-shinned Hawks (156) took top spot just ahead of Turkey Vultures (155). American Kestrel were lower than expected at 18
Non-raptor Observations:
A few more Warblers today and ducks are returning. Blue-jay numbers still high at 23,730
Predictions: Tomorrow will be similar to today in temperature with clear skies. Wind will be moderate from the north which should result in a good Hawk count. Might be a good day for a visit ======================================================================== Report submitted by Peter Veighey (<pjveighey...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Hugh Kent
Observers: Liz Kent, Mike Jaber
Visitors: Big thanks to Mike and Liz for helping out in the morning. Thanks also to Fred and Connie, and also Kate with help on observing. It was good to see Lou and Toni, and Eva, Kayden and David from ERCA. Thanks to Kyle Tom ,and Steph from Hamilton
Weather: Wind moderate from north until mid morning then turned south clear skies all day. Temperature rose to a hot 28C Good visibility all day
Raptor Observations: Sharp-shinned Hawks (156) took top spot just ahead of Turkey Vultures (155). American Kestrel were lower than expected at 18
Non-raptor Observations:
A few more Warblers today and ducks are returning. Blue-jay numbers still high at 23,730
Predictions: Tomorrow will be similar to today in temperature with clear skies. Wind will be moderate from the north which should result in a good Hawk count. Might be a good day for a visit ======================================================================== Report submitted by Peter Veighey (<pjveighey...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 9/28/25 2:53 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (28 Sep 2025) 538 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Sep 28, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Andrew Sturgess
Observers: Bill Peregord, Don Sherwood, Jo Patterson, Mark Hainen,
Michelle Peregord, Rosemary Brady
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
Another day of erratic winds that rose and fell in strength, finally
switching to the southeast from our favored northeast direction. Oddly, it
was the southeast winds that seemed to be more productive at the end of the
day. The temperature rose to seventy-nine, and although we started the
watch with a fair amount of cirrus clouds, those soon dissipated and we
were faced with the dreaded blue screen of death. The barometer rose above
thirty inches for the first time in a few days and should continue to rise,
gradually, over the next few days.
Raptor Observations:
We felt that we should have had a better day than we did, given the winds.
Perhaps the skies were too crowded with blue jays to allow the other
raptors to fly. The turkey vultures took the gold, although we did award a
second gold, more on that later. Three hundred and twenty specimens
wandered by at a relaxed pace. A late rush of broadwings got the silver,
one hundred and fourteen did the trick. Sharpies took bronze with an anemic
showing of forty-two. Those birds were notably absent for long periods. The
kestrels were not too far behind the sharpies with thirty birds, much less
of a gap in numbers than is usual. Red-tailed hawks tallied twelve birds
today. Harriers were not very common with six representatives. Four bald
eagles and two ospreys were counted. Three Cooper’s hawks made the
clicker. The falcon hat-trick was achieved again with three merlins and one
peregrine falcon. Last, but certainly not least, we awarded a gold to our
first golden eagle of the season. It was only our fifth September golden in
the history of the watch.
Non-raptor Observations:
A merlin gave us some entertainment today as it noshed on a dragonfly while
circling behind us. The gulls were aloft hawking insects in big number. We
saw larger numbers of tree swallows today, usually a very common bird at
the site, but this year, they have been elsewhere. The pelicans were taking
a day of rest today, some roosting out by the jetty with a large cormorant
contingent. The blue jays were serious movers today with birds all over the
sky through the early afternoon. Ten thousand, six hundred and seventy were
counted by our resident expert blue jay man. Monarchs were a little more
common today with sixty-eight counted.
Predictions:
Tomorrow should be similar to today, hot, with little cloud, and slow
northeast winds. The winds are predicted to be in the two to three mph
range, which probably means variable strengths and directions. Temperatures
should reach eighty-degrees. I don’t know about you, but I am ready for
some fall temperatures. The barometer will continue to climb to the 30.2”
range. The light winds will affect the flight lines tomorrow and it’s a
flip of the coin as to whether the birds will fly our way, or take a more
difficult to observe route. Usually, it means very high flight lines when
the winds are light and skies are blue, so our futures are so bright, we
will have to wear shades.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Andrew Sturgess (<ajyes72...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Paul Gosselin
Observers: Hugh Kent, Liz Kent, Mike Jaber, Olga Klekner
Visitors: Big thanks to Paul for taking Official Counter duties today and for Mike, Olga, Hugh and Liz who helped spot the very high raptors and of course count the Blue Jays! It was good to meet Jeff and Robin and Sheila who took a great interest in the hawk watch.
Weather: A moderate wind from the north for most of the day, only changing to south in the last hour. Clear skies all day, with temperature gradually rising to an uncomfortable 30c on the tower.
Raptor Observations: North winds paid off today with numbers increasing across the board. Majority of birds passed very high. Turkey Vultures (645) are starting to move and dislodged Sharp-shinned Hawks (233) from the top spot. A good number of Peregrine Falcons (9) were seen today. Red-tailed Hawks (50) were in the Turkey Vulture kettles, together with Broad-winged Hawks (53)
Non-raptor Observations: The ducks have disappeared! Maybe something to do with the start of the hunting season. Blue Jays excelled themselves today with a season's best (so far) of 75,960. Quiet on the songbird front, with the exception of American Goldfinches (490). The list is at: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276152653
Predictions: Tomorrow is similar to today with a moderate wind from the north until midday when it moves SE. Clear skies and high temperatures - when will it end! So probably a similar mix to today but maybe not the numbers. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Hugh Kent (<Hughnkent...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Adult female Yellow-bellied Sapsucker foraging in my sweet gum tree today. It's migration season, and she's heading south. I recorded one in the same tree on April 19 last year.
Lynnwest Dearborn
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Date: 9/27/25 2:47 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (27 Sep 2025) 211 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Sep 27, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Andrew Sturgess, Bill Peregord, Don Sherwood, Frank Kitakis,
Joe Godreau, Laura Wilson, Mark Hainen, Rosemary Brady
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
It didn’t look good from the get-go. Southwest winds of little strength
at the start, but destined to grow from five to a robust thirteen mph
during the day, before finally receding a little in the final hour. The
hourly bird count tells the effects of the winds. A slow start, a fair
middle of the day, and when the winds grew enough to create small whitecaps
on the lake, a big drop-off in the final two hours. The southwest winds
create a hazy sky in the north where the birds are pushed, so seeing the
birds is sometimes impossible. Even turkey vultures are mere shimmering
apparitions in an evanescent sky. The temperature reached a summer-like
eighty-four degrees. The barometer had its midday bump but receded to
29.85” again. This should be the bottom and it should climb a few tenths
tomorrow.
Raptor Observations:
We are having to adjust to three digit counts for the interim period
between broadwing and turkey vulture season. Next week might remedy that.
Sharp-shins led the way today with ninety counted. Turkey vultures were
scarce today in our neighborhood, although we heard tales of large numbers
elsewhere. We ended with sixty-four, most coming in one large group.
American kestrels are still trying their best, bless their little hearts.
We noted thirty-five of them on the run today. We did achieve the falcon
hat-trick today with two merlins and three peregrines. Three broadwings
were also seen. Eight harriers showed up, our sightings of that species
seem to be slowing but conditions have not been the best. Three bald eagles
and one osprey were counted. We seem to have a first-year osprey, making
infrequent appearances in unusual places, that we think is making a
stopover in its first migration.
Non-raptor Observations:
The pelicans mostly sat out the day, only a few were seen flying, and most
were roosting on the Celeron Island jetty. This has become a favorite place
for cormorants and gulls over the last couple of weeks. Caspian and
Forster’s terns were noted nearby, and a small group of about thirty
common terns were seen out by the jetty too. Our kingfisher made its
appointed rounds, strangely silent. Swallows and swifts continue to reap
the biomass feast available in the bodega in the sky. Occasionally, we can
see flights of ducks migrating out over the lake. They do not appear to be
mallards, being smaller and faster, but our duck ID skills at that distance
are limited. The blue jays were on the move today with six thousand, five
hundred and seventy scooting by. Only thirty-five monarchs made the
clicker.
Predictions:
Tomorrow seems to look a little better on paper. Winds will be more
favorable but at a relatively low speed. Low wind speeds usually are
unreliable as to direction, flipping to the southeast, whether predicted or
not. One good thing is a strong rebound in barometric pressure. Coupled
with the winds coming from a generally northern direction, this has more
potential than today. The following days show more northeast winds to come
in stronger strengths, so starting on Tuesday, we may get turkey vultures
in bigger numbers. The next couple of days have wimpy untrustworthy winds
so we may have periods of little activity similar to today.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Andrew Sturgess (<ajyes72...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Noel Herdman, Paul Gosselin
Observers: Corinne Allsop, Mike Jaber, Noel Herdman, Olga Klekner
Visitors: Big thanks to Noel for starting the day off and Paul for taking over as official counter for the rest of the day. Thanks to Noel, Olga, Corinne, and Mike for helping with the count.
Weather: Started off fair became hot in the afternoon. Wind mostly south west turning to South later on. Clear skies all day.
Raptor Observations: Turkey Vultures took top spot with 181, followed by Sharp-Shinned Hawk at 113, Good view of adult Peregrine falcon along the shore.
Non-raptor Observations: Big numbers of Blue Jays (14,230), Tree Swallows (7712),and American Pelicans keeping up their number at 75. It was nice to see 3 Brown Thrashers near the tower. The list is at: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275864843
Predictions: Forecast is similar to today except the wind is moderate from the north, hopefully we will see more raptors of the same mix. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Paul Gosselin (<paulgosselin25...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 9/27/25 10:52 am From: Jack Smiley <jackrsmiley...> Subject: [birders] (OT) Prairie Photos Needed
We still need photos of prairie landscapes and plants in order to publicize the Sibley Prairie in Brownstown Township. Please send me a few of your best southeast Michigan prairie photos if you're willing to share. This week might be a good time to take photos in the Sibley Prairie area--or representative photos of other prairies in southeast Michigan.
For this coming week, the Sibley Prairie - West Prairie (26360 West Rd, Brownstown Twp 48134) might be a good place to get photographs.
For a select few, we may also be able to get access this week to the King Road Prairie within the Sibley complex. This is private property, but EGLE has an easement on a portion and can grant access. Contact me for details.
I may also be able to get access for a few people to take photographs on the Fritz property--which is the Sibley Prairie property which we are trying to purchase. This may be the last good week to capture some prairie plants in bloom, so please let me know if you're willing to help out.
Date: 9/26/25 2:49 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (26 Sep 2025) 485 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Sep 26, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Andrew Sturgess
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
As the days grow shorter, the time that we arrive at the watch is closer to
sunrise and the glare off the lake grows more intense every day. Couple
that with a bright clear blue sky, with light winds that caused the birds
to go very high to seek stronger breezes, and you could say that Jo and I
earned our money today. We may need retina transplants in the near future,
but our dedication to the mission was unwavering. The morning was a bear,
but gradually we gained a little relief from cumulus clouds that formed in
a scattered haphazard manner over the sky. The winds, as usual, were not
really as forecast, rising and falling, and despite the weather channel’s
insistence that they came from the northern end of things, there were small
whitecaps on Lake Erie that testified to a different, more southernly
origin. The temperatures reached the upper seventies. The barometer started
to climb but had a relapse and ended at 29.85”, slightly lower that it
started the day.
Raptor Observations:
We had to chase the flight lines today as the wind conditions were in
constant flux, early flights were very high, but as the wind picked up, the
lines came down and assumed a more normal pattern in the afternoon hours.
The turkey vultures took the gold today, thanks to a group of over one
hundred that streamed by together. Altogether, we counted one hundred and
seventy-nine. Broadwings barely beat the sharp-shins for the silver with a
one hundred and twenty-eight to one hundred and twenty-five count. We had
to go to the cameras to determine a winner but the broadwings won by a
beak. We are starting to see more second year sharpies with the transverse
streaking on the breast, but not full adult plumage, or red eyes. Kestrels
are still zipping through at a breakneck pace, but we only managed thirty
today. A lot of these birds may have been pushed to the north into a very
hazy sky due to the southerly winds. The harriers waited until the
afternoon to be counted with ten making the clicker. We counted seven
Cooper’s hawks today. Four bald eagles were seen pumping through in a
determined manner, eager to get to the wintering grounds. One red-tailed
hawk was also noted.
Non-raptor Observations:
The pelicans were back in force today. Small numbers have been seen
roosting by the Celeron Island jetty, but today they took to the air in
numbers approaching two hundred. Thankfully, the gulls were kettling a
little further away today and were not running as much interference as
yesterday. Although, it was sometimes rewarding to search the top of their
kettles to find broadwings and sharpies. Blue jays totaled two thousand and
twenty-six today. Monarchs had a slow morning but picked up the pace in the
afternoon, reaching forty-five total.
Predictions:
Tomorrow looks to be another painful day for the eyes. No mention of
clouds, and a strengthening southwest wind, starting at four mph and ending
at nine. The barometer will rise again but it will be a dead cat bounce,
returning to its starting point of 29.85”. Temperatures will be very
warm, reaching the eighty-degree mark, but feeling like a couple of degrees
more. Southwest winds are not our favorite but if they are light enough, we
may see some traffic. It looks more promising next week with NE winds
forecast as the barometer rises, and that should get the turkey vultures
moving.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Andrew Sturgess (<ajyes72...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Hugh Kent, Noel Herdman
Observers: Daniel Lee, Liz Kent, Mike Jaber, Noel Herdman, Olga Klekner
Visitors: Thanks to Noel for starting off the day and to Liz, Mike, Noel, Daniel and Olga for picking out those hard to see Raptors to the north and counting wave after wave of Blue Jays. It was good to meet Patrick from Owen Sound, Bill from New Brunswick, Johan and Jennifer who all showed a great interest in the Hawk Watch.
Weather: Moderate wind from West turning SW in afternoon. Clear skies with small amount of cloud appearing from midday. Temperature mostly about low 20s but rose to 25c in mid afternoon. Visibility good, no haze today.
Raptor Observations: Same story as last few days with Sharp-shinned Hawk (204) the most numerous. American Kestrel (16) numbers fell from high of yesterday. Turkey Vulture (80) gradually increasing.
Non-raptor Observations: Another big wave of Blue Jays (25740). Brown Thrasher has been present for a few days and first appearance of American Coot (24) on the marsh today. Good flight of Dragonflies (47) and Monarchs (33). The list is at: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275630951
Predictions: Forecast is similar to today, so I guess we can hope for the same mix and number of raptors. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Hugh Kent (<Hughnkent...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Hugh Kent
Observers: Daniel Lee, Larry Ludwicki, Liz Kent, Mike Jaber, Noel Herdman, Olga Klekner
Visitors: Big thank you to Daniel, Larry, Liz, Mike, Noel and Olga for observing and taking turns on the Blue Jay clickers!
Weather: Wind was moderate initially from the north, but turning SW at midday. Temperature rose to 26c mid afternoon. Scattered clouds all day, but hazy at times reducing visibility.
Raptor Observations: Sharp-shinned Hawks (153) again took the top spot, followed by Turkey Vultures (125), American Kestrels (69) are beginning to increase and lets hope that trend continues. A couple of Broad-winged Hawk (28) kettles has brought their number past 40,000 for the season.
Non-raptor Observations: Blue Jays (30690) continue to increase, and again a good number of Tree Swallows (4045) were seen hawking low over the marsh in the morning. American Pelican (69) numbers remain steady and duck diversity is on the increase. The list is at: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275461285
Predictions: A northern aspect is forecast for the light/moderate wind until Late morning. Clear skies and mid 20s temperature may reduce the numbers compared to today, but the mix will probably be the same. Lets hope American Kestrels continue to increase. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Hugh Kent (<Hughnkent...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 9/25/25 2:53 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (25 Sep 2025) 403 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Sep 25, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Andrew Sturgess, Bill Peregord, Mark Hainen
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
Although the rain passed yesterday, the cloudy aftermath remained today.
The morning hours felt a little close and dull. The afternoon had a little
more light, with blue crevice’s showing in the heavily laden cumulus
clouds of many hues, ranging from dark steel blue to titanium white. The
light winds were their usual indecisive selves with peaks and valleys in
strength, retaining a northerly component for the most part; although the
wind seemed to be coming off the lake at the end of the day, which is not
to the north. The temperature topped out at seventy-four degrees. The
barometer finally bottomed out at 29.8 inches and should begin a gradual
climb over the next few days. An interesting day to look at, with
constantly changing clouds, a day always looking like it wanted to clear
up, but never quite managing to do so.
Raptor Observations:
We are in a transitional time in the hawk watch. The broadwings race is
nearly run and the turkey vultures are getting into the starting blocks
with a few leaving before the gun has fired. We counted one hundred and
thirty-four of them today. They are starting to kettle and stream in bigger
numbers, even though some single birds are still wandering aimlessly around
the sky. The broadwings were not too far behind today with one hundred and
seventeen being observed. No big kettles anymore, but an unsteady trickle
of handfuls of birds. Ninety-eight sharpies flew by, most taking the high
road in the light winds. It was a neck-stretching day today, watching high
overhead for most travelers. Kestrels numbered thirty-one birds. Fourteen
harriers pumped through. The number three was shared by both red-tailed
hawks and Cooper’s hawks. We also noted one peregrine falcon.
Non-raptor Observations:
Gull flak was an issue today as there seemed to be a large migration of
dragonflies that attracted attention. The gulls took to the air, performing
aerobatics in pursuit of prey. Even some broadwings were seen hawking
insects. Every small kettle of raptors seemed to be located in a large
kettle of gulls, needing to be sorted out and counted. The pelicans were
small in number today, roosting by the Celeron jetty. What appeared, at
first glance, to be a flight of them turned out to be about twenty mute
swans flying in formation. Our resident kingfisher was out today. The
marshes have returned to marshy status after the heavy rains of yesterday.
Blue jays numbered two thousand, eight hundred and seventy today. Monarchs
came in heavier numbers later in the day, but only forty-two were counted.
Predictions:
Tomorrow should be sunnier with temperatures about two degrees higher. The
barometer will be slowly rising, but stay in the 29.8” range. Winds are
going to be light from a west-north-west direction. Light winds are usually
erratic, rising and falling during the day, no matter what the prediction
says. The birds will probably be high again, but hopefully, a few more will
come our way. The usually suspects at this time of year, sharpies,
kestrels, harriers, straggling broadwings and a growing number of turkey
vultures should be on the menu.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Andrew Sturgess (<ajyes72...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Date: 9/24/25 4:30 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (24 Sep 2025) 71 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Sep 24, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers:
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
A strong storm moved through early this morning and lasted until noon.
Although the forecast had called for rain all day, the thunder stopped, and
the dark gray clouds gave way to less intimidating white stratus. While
blue skies were still several hours off, the northeast winds and break in
precipitation were enough to get the raptors moving.
Raptor Observations:
A kettle of twenty-six Turkey Vultures kicked off the movement today. Their
dark forms swirled in sharp contrast against the bright clouds before
streaming over the parking lot. Another eleven vultures followed, bringing
the day’s total to thirty-seven. October is their month, so we expect to
see many more soon. Other large raptors included eight red-tails, four
broad-wings, and one Bald Eagle, all taking a similar path to the vultures.
A Merlin accompanied one of the red-tails, living up to its reputation as
it stooped and harassed the Buteo. The species less adept at soaring
followed a slightly different line—nine Sharp-shinned Hawks, eight
Northern Harriers, and three American Kestrels appeared over Celeron and
crossed toward the southern end of the metropark.
Non-raptor Observations:
The local birds were the first to appear after the rain subsided. A
Cooper’s Hawk chased Starlings, two adult Bald Eagles soared together
over the water, and five unmotivated Turkey Vultures floated around the
antennas. Blue Jays had an impressive afternoon flight—nearly twelve
thousand were counted. They passed by the hundreds overhead, flying low and
visible even without binoculars. The Caspian Terns were noisy, and a
Herring Gull took up residence on a buoy usually reserved for ring-bills.
Predictions:
Tomorrow should bring northwest winds at 3–6 mph. Although northwest
winds usually favor Holiday Beach, we still expect a good flight. The rain
has temporarily cooled temperatures by a few degrees, and with an overcast
sky, we may need our sweatshirts.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Erika Van Kirk (<erika_vankirk...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Date: 9/24/25 6:27 am From: 'Steve Jerant' via Birders <birders...> Subject: [birders] Haehnle Sanctuary Crane Count 09/22/2025
Total Cranes Roosting: 12
See Don Henise’s excellent JAS Blog at:
JacksonAudubon Society - Haehnle Sanctuary Crane Count 09/22/2025 By Don Henise
You can view past postings and historical crane countingdata on
Haehnle web site
JASBlog page
And on JAS or Haehnle FB pages
Regards,Steve Jerant
--
Birders is a service of the Great Lakes Commission. Visit us at www.glc.org
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Date: 9/23/25 3:33 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (23 Sep 2025) 147 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Sep 23, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Andrew Sturgess, Don Sherwood, Jerry Jourdan, Mark Hainen,
Rosemary Brady
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating
raptors.
Weather:
Heavy fog blanketed the landscape through the first two hours, limiting
visibility to little more than a curtain of gray, and it did not fully lift
until midday. The dense, pea-soup haze swallowed our distant
landmarks—Canada and the antennas—leaving them hidden from view. To the
southwest, dark nimbostratus clouds churned with an ominous weight, but
their threat of rain never materialized. The lingering haze to the north
was less forgiving, obscuring the skies where more migrants were surely
being carried along by the steady southwest winds. Temperatures rose to
75°F once more, though the heat only became noticeable in the final hour,
when cloud cover thinned from a solid blanket to a fractured half.
Raptor Observations:
The first hour passed without a single bird, but we can’t fault them for
choosing to wait out the fog. A trickle began in the second hour, but it
wasn’t until the fog finally lifted that the hourly counts climbed into
the double digits. By the day’s end, we tallied eighty-three sharpies,
twenty-six kestrels, and fourteen broad-wings. The broad-wings appeared in
two small kettles and a handful of singles. A kettle of five Turkey
Vultures spiraled upward before streaming south, leaving little doubt they
were migrants. Eight Northern Harriers, three Red-tailed Hawks, three
Peregrine Falcons, two Ospreys, two Bald Eagles, and a lone Cooper’s Hawk
rounded out the flight, bringing the day’s total to one hundred and
forty-seven migrants from ten different species.
Non-raptor Observations:
A Caspian Tern was photographed with a small muskie. It spent a few long
seconds wrestling the fish into a head-first position, and another before
finally swallowing it whole. American White Pelicans continue to linger
near Celeron, though their presence is complicated by the Mute Swans
scattered among them, making it tricky to distinguish and count the two
large white species bobbing together on the water. Over one thousand Blue
Jays came through today.
Predictions:
Tomorrow's count will likely be rained out, with a 70% chance of rain
expected throughout the entire period. Updates on the count's status will
be posted on the Facebook page.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Erika Van Kirk (<erika_vankirk...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Hugh Kent, Mike Jaber
Observers: Hugh Kent, Liz Kent
Visitors: Big thanks to Mike and Hugh for being the official counters and for Liz observing. It was good to meet Michaela and Loyd from BC, James and Ronny from Sarnia, and Bill from Harrow, who all took a great interest in the Hawk Watch.
Weather: Winds moderate generally from the south with overcast skies. Temperature reached 28 C. in the afternoon. Visibility limited due to haze.
Raptor Observations: Sharp-shined hawks(120) today took top spot trailed by Turkey Vultures (33) and American Kestrel(32). Happy to see (9) Broad-wing Hawks.
Non-raptor Observations: More species of duck appeared today. Blue jay numbers (12,110)continue to grow. A huge flock of Tree Swallows (12,000) was seen early morning hawking low over the marsh. The list is at: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275122189
Predictions: Rain is forecast for most of the day. The Hawk Watch may not happen if rain is heavy which would be unfortunate because the north winds are favorable for migration. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Peter Veighey (<pjveighey...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
Date: 9/22/25 7:43 pm From: Mary Wise <auntyem...> Subject: Re: [birders] Abridged summary of - 2 updates in 2 topics
Hi Dawn,
It appears you have your great lakes birders group set to weekly digest.
If you visit your google groups, you can change the settings. When you are
signed into gmail, go to the 9 dots icon for google apps to the right of
the settings icon (gear), and select groups. Then you can find 'Birders'
under 'My Groups', and in the subscription column, change it from 'digest'
to 'each email'. That'll get you the emails in a more timely manner.
Hope that helps,
Mary
Birders Admin
On Mon, Sep 22, 2025 at 1:22 PM Dawn Swartz <dawnkswartz...> wrote:
Date: 9/22/25 5:50 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (22 Sep 2025) 33 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch
Brownstown, Michigan, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Sep 22, 2025
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Jo Patterson
Observers: Bill Peregord, Jerry Jourdan
Visitors:
We welcome visitors to our site as we are eager to share the joys of hawk
watching with one and all. Although there may be times in which we are all
very busy and need alone-time to concentrate, those are the times that are
most enjoyable for visitors as the skies are filled with migrating raptors.
Weather:
The sky remained overcast all day, a thick stratus layer stretched above us
in mottled shades, dark and bright patches quilted together. A steady rain
fell from 11:00 to 12:30, halting the count until it passed. Southwest
winds rose and fell unpredictably, and the barometer hovered below 30
inches. Temperatures never rose above 75°F, and occasional gusts of wind
cut through the humidity, briefly stirring the heavy, stagnant air.
Raptor Observations:
The morning drizzle of birds was cut short by the actual drizzle. When the
rain passed and the count resumed, a small push followed—mostly
sharp-shins that had likely waited out the weather nearby. The final two
hours produced only three more sharpies, but at least the day offered
practice in patience. Twenty-seven sharpies, four kestrels, and two
harriers were counted for a grand total of thirty-three today, not our best
but at least not our worst.
Non-raptor Observations:
The boat ramp was eerily quiet today. Early in the morning, a few shots
from hunters sent a mixed flock of Wood Duck, Mallard, and Canada Goose up
our inlet. For the most part, the gulls remained silent. One Ring-Billed
Gull gave a few squawks as it discovered—and promptly swallowed—a
bluegill. A local Bald Eagle made two passes at a floating fish before
abandoning the attempt and turning to harass an Osprey for its meal, which
also proved unsuccessful. Nine hundred Blue Jays were seen migrating,
mostly in small flocks.
Predictions:
Tomorrow looks like more of the same… overcast skies, SW winds, and a
chance of precipitation. We expect a few sharp-shins, kestrels, and
possibly a harrier or two, but are not holding out hope for high numbers.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Erika Van Kirk (<erika_vankirk...>)
Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
Visitors: Thanks to Noel for taking a spell as official counter in the morning and for the big help from Chip, Corinne, Liz, Mike and Noel for a good chunk of the day.
Weather: Light to moderate south wind, overcast with heavy rain late morning. Visibility poor with haze most of the day. Temperature still managed to rise to 28c in the afternoon.
Raptor Observations: Slow day with Sharp-shinned Hawks (74) again topping the bill. All the others mostly never reached double figures.
Non-raptor Observations: Better diversity today, with a good period of activity of Warblers, Vireos and Thrushes around the tower after the rain. Blue Jay (8370) numbers being maintained and fewer American Pelicans (25) on the marsh. Ruby-crowned Kinglet and Blue-headed Vireo were new for the season. The list is at: https://ebird.org/checklist/S274949293
Predictions: Forecast is for a light wind from the west, cloudy with slightly lower temperatures. Probably we will see a similar mix to today but hopefully in greater numbers. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Hugh Kent (<Hughnkent...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
